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Pittsburgh Courier NEW
VOL. 107, NO. 48
Published Weekly
Three Sections
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NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 6, 2016
News icon and Tuskegee Airmen champion Regis Bobonis has died
“I was in the second class of Black females behind pioneers like late Cmdr. Gwen Elliott.” MAURITA BRYANT, Allegheny County assistant police superintendent
by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
Regis Bobonis Sr., who said he had a “front row seat to history” while working at the Pittsburgh Courier in the 1930s and spent the last 20 years championing the recognition of local Tuskegee Airmen, passed away Nov. 25 of natural causes. He was 91. For a 2011 story on the Courier’s centennial, Bobonis recalled one of those front-row moments that occurred in 1932. “I heard (founder) Bob Vann make a speech in Cleveland, Ohio, to the St. James Literary Society. REGIS BOBONIS No one expected anything unusual, but there was a bombshell embedded in that speech. It was a sucker punch,” Bobonis said. “When he said ‘turn Lincoln’s picture to the wall,’ 35,000 Blacks in Allegheny County, and 1 million across the country joined the Democratic Party. The road to Barack Obama began in the Hill District office of Robert L. Vann.” When World War II broke out, Bobonis joined the Navy serving as a petty officer. Following his discharge at the war’s end, he married his Schenley high school sweetheart and the love of his life, the late Hurley Williams. They remained married for the next 53 years. But he stayed in the news business, becoming the first African American reporter for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, then becoming the first Black television reporter in Pittsburgh by joining WIIC (now WPXI). He joked that “realizing he wasn’t the SEE BOBONIS A4
Bryant speaks on race and gender in policing
UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE—Maurita Bryant tells an audience at Pitt’s Center for Race & Social Problems of her time as a Black female police officer who rose to the rank of assistant chief. (Photo by J.L. Martello)
by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
In the early and mid-1970s, Maurita Bryant worked at whatever minimum wage job she could, usually more than one, to pay the bills her husband couldn’t because he was constantly in and out of jail. In 1977, after a federal discrimination lawsuit forced the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police to hire Blacks and women, she applied. She retired 38 years later as an assistant chief, the only African American woman to reach that rank. Now making $95,000 a year as Allegheny County assistant police superintendent, Bryant recently told an audience at the University of Pittsburgh’s Center for Race and Social Problems how her early struggles gave her a unique perspective as a police officer, and helped forge the unique drive that made her successful. “My earliest motivation was strictly
Wolf’s opioid initiatives mimic new federal recommendations by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf has made the fight against opioid addiction one of the cornerstones of his administration. Now a study from the U.S. Surgeon General’s office reinforces those initiatives by officially classifying addiction as a disease—Substance Abuse Disorder—and recommending expanded treatment options. The Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs Secretary Gary Tennis said this is a major step forward in battling the opioid epidemic. “The report classifies SUD as a chronic condition, like heart disease or diabetes, and recommends parity in health care treatment,” he said. “And the results of this disease are devastating—it has a terrible impact on crime, SEE OPIOID A4
Promote service, not sentencing
survival—raising my daughters and moving them out of the projects,” she said. Being one of the first Black female recruits, Bryant noted she faced blatant discrimination for both her race and gender, and while it is not as overt today, racism and sexism still exist within the department to this day. “I was in the second class of Black females behind pioneers like late Cmdr. Gwen Elliott,” she said. “We were considered the least qualified by our peers— deemed by some as unfit and unwanted, and only advanced to fill a quota. But despite all the ‘isms’ on the job I was determined to succeed. As long as they didn’t put their hands on me I didn’t care what they said.” Bryant said that thanks to strong mentorship and support, she developed a sense of purpose and realized that her unique position brought with it unique
Last year, a group of advocates, city and county justice and human service officials, academics and foundation representatives held a series of meetings on implementing a program that could both reduce the disparate number of low-risk Black offenders in the Allegheny County jail, but also help repair the strained relationships between police and Pittsburgh’s African American communities. Called LEAD, for Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion, the program diverts se-
SEE BRYANT A4
SEE PROMOTE A4
Where is the arrest diversion program? by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
Gun violence is a public health crisis in Pittsburgh Why hasn’t it been solved? by Jeffrey Benzing PublicSource
Shirley Jones Douglas mimicsgunshots with finger snaps. One after another, just like bullets flying on the nearby blocks. Homewood is a place where a 17year-old can be shot to death in broad daylight. That happened in September when Daija McCall, who was carrying a large amount of cocaine, was fired at on a Saturday afternoon. Eleven times. She was killed a short walk from where Douglas’ son, Frederick, 28, was shot on a frigid evening in January 2014, the first fatality in one of the deadliest years in city history. “Once my son was the first homicide, it just began,” Douglas said, waving her arm left to right with a salvo of snaps. “Shot after shot, child after child.”
She recalls being stuck in traffic, the last moments with her son extended as she drove him from his father’s engineering business toward Homewood. Later, she noticed an odd string of missed calls while at church. Her sister said Frederick had been killed. She didn’t believe her. Then the detective described his shoes—bright orange and turquoise—and she knew. Now she hears shots near home, once so close she dropped to the floor and blurted a prayer. It’s not rare. Thousands of shots are fired every year in Pittsburgh. The bullets fly from handguns and assault weapons, echoing past houses and schools. And the city’s Black communities experience an unequal share of the resulting chaos and trauma. SEE GUN A5
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GRIEVING MOTHERS—These mothers who lost their children to gun violence turned their grief into action. (Photos provided by Public Source)
Julianne Malveaux says
Kanye needs help, but likely won’t get it Forum A7
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NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 6, 2016
INTERNATIONAL
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
This Week In Black History
For the week of Nov. 30-Dec. 6 November 30 1912—Legendary filmmaker and photographer Gordon Parks is born in Fort Scott, Kan. In addition to his pioneering work in film and photography, Parks wrote 12 books and authored a ballet entitled “Martin” in honor of civil rights legend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 1924—Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm is born in Brooklyn, N.Y. Chisholm became the leading Black female politician in America. She served in the New York State Assembly, the United States Congress and ran for the Democratic Party nomination for presiSHIRLEY CHISHOLM dent in 1972. Chisholm died on Jan. 1, 2005. December 1 1641—U.S. (then British) colonies began legalizing slavery. On this day, Massachusetts became the first colony to do so. Other colonies followed suit. Ironically, Massachusetts was also the first state to outlaw slavery as a result of a 1783 State Supreme Court ruling. 1774—In another compromise measure that characterized the legal struggle against slavery in America, the Continental Congress approves a measure banning the IN REMEMBRANCE—Men hang a giant banner with a picture of Cuba’s late leader Fidel Castro as further importation of slaves into the country. However, slavery itself remained a young revolutionary, from the Cuban National Library building in Havana, Cuba, Sunday, Nov. 27, legal. Plus, it was common for slave ships to violate the ban. 1877—Judge Jonathan Jasper Wright resigns. Wright had been the first Black 2016. (AP Photo/Desmond Boylan) state Supreme Court judge. However, he resigned on this day (out of possible fear for his life) as the Reconstruction era ended White racists were reasserting control over Southern politics and law. While on the South Carolina Supreme Court, Wright wrote 87 opinions which were noted for “clear thinking and a solid basis in common law.” 1878—Arthur Spingarn is born. He, along with his brother Joel, was one of the principal early organizers of the NAACP. At one point, he headed both the NAACP and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. His contribution to the group was primarily in the areas of law and contacts to liberal, politically well connected Whites. December 2 1859—John Brown, one of the leading White heroes of staying at home, off streets hushed by by Michael Weissenstein Black history, is hanged near Harpers Ferry, Va. He was a prohibition on music and celebration Associated Press Writer a tireless crusader against slavery. His activities ranged during the nine days of official mournHAVANA (AP)—Thousands of Cubans from working in the secretive “Underground Railroad,” ing for Castro. For some, particularly began lining up early near Havana’s which helped Blacks escape slavery to attacking slave younger Cubans, Castro’s death barely Plaza of the Revolution Monday carryARTHUR SPINGARN owners who wanted to expand slavery outside of the registered. ing portraits of Fidel Castro, flowers and South. Brown’s frustration, with the slow pace of efforts Yankemell Barrera, a 20-year-old stuCuban flags for the start of week-long to abolish slavery, led him to attempt to incite a violent slave revolt which began with dent, said Castro wasn’t a strong presservices bidding farewell to the man ence in his life and that he wasn’t much a raid on the federal arsenal at Harpers Ferry in October who ruled the country for nearly half a 1859. His group was eventually cornered and he was affected by his death or planning to go century. hanged on this day in 1859. to any of the memorial events. He said One of the first in line was Tania 1884—Granville T. Woods (1856-1910) invents and on studying for finals would be a better use Jimenez, 53, a mathematician who arthis day patents a major improvement to the telephone of his time. rived at 4 a.m. carrying a rose. transmitter. Indeed, it can be reasonably argued that “Even if I’m obligated to go, I’m not “Fidel is everything to us, the soul of this highly productive African-American inventor actudoing it,” he said. this country who gave everything, all ally invented the telephone because his device (called Tens of thousands of others, though, his life,” Jimenez said in tears. “telegraphony”) was superior to that invented by Alexwere expected to return to the streets A nine-story image of a young Castro ander Graham Bell. It was so superior, in fact, that the Monday after 9 a.m., when simultajoined the towering images of fallen Bell Company purchased it from Woods in part because neous 21-gun salutes will sound in guerrillas overlooking the massive his telephone was better and in part to prevent Woods the capital and in the eastern city of square where the government said from becoming a major competitor. Woods received nearly Santiago, where Castro launched his Cubans would “render homage and sign revolution in 1953. At the same moment, 50 patents for inventions in the areas of transportation, GRANVILLE T. WOODS a solemn oath to carry out the concept electricity and communications. He was called “the Black Cubans are expected to begin filing of the revolutionary expressed by the through the monument to national hero Edison” after Thomas Alva Edison who is generally considered the most productive revolutionary leader.” U.S. inventor. However, Woods and Edison would cross paths when Edison sued him Jose Marti in the center of the plaza, After 10 years of leadership by Casin a dispute over which one first invented the multiplex telegraph. Edison tried to buy where they were expected to sign the tro’s younger brother Raul, a relatively Woods off by offering him a prominent position in his company but Woods declined. “concept of the revolution” oath. camera-shy and low-key successor, 1891—Historian Charles Wesley is born in Louisville, Ky. Wesley was one of Black The “concept of revolution” is a secCuba finds itself riveted once again America’s most productive historians and a strong advocate tion of a 2000 speech in which Castro by the words and images of the leader of the need for Blacks to know their history. His major works calls Cubans to believe in “the profound who dominated the lives of generations. included “Neglected History,” “Collapse of the Confederacy” conviction that no force in the world is Since his death on Friday night, stateand “Negro Labor in the United States.” He had a long assocapable of crushing the force of truth run newspapers, television and radio ciation with Carter G. Woodson’s Association for the Study of and ideas.” have been running wall-to-wall tributes Afro-American Life and History in Washington, D.C. The government did not say if the to Fidel, broadcasting non-stop footage December 3 ashes of the 90-year-old former presof his speeches, interviews and foreign 1847—Frederick Douglas and Martin R. Delaney establish ident would be on display inside the trips, interspersed with adulatory re“The North Star” and it goes on to become a major anti-slavmonument. Virtually all schools and membrances by prominent Cubans. ery newspaper. government offices were closing during “There’s a genuine feeling of mourning, 1922—Ralph Gardner is born in Cleveland, Ohio. He was a the homage to Castro, which will stretch that’s not a formality, that’s not showy, pioneer chemist whose research into plastics led to the develfor 13 hours on Monday and take place that’s not outward-focused, but rather opment of so-called hard plastics and aided product developagain on Tuesday, ending in a rally echocompletely intimate,” former National ments in the petrochemical and pharmaceutical industries. ing those that Castro addressed on the Assembly President Ricardo Alarcon 1982—Thomas “The Hit Man” Hearns defeats Wilfredo plaza for most of his time in power. said on state television Sunday. Benitez for the WBC Junior Middleweight boxing title. Hearns “It’s a terrible sadness. Everyone’s THOMAS HEARNS Ordinary people have largely been becomes the first person to win boxing titles in five different feeling it here,” said Orlando Alvarez, a weight classes. 55-year-old jeweler. “EvDecember 4 eryone will be there.” 1783—General George Washington gives his famous fareOn Wednesday, Caswell address to troops at Fraunces Tavern in New York City. The tro’s ashes will begin a three-day procession east tavern was owned by a prominent Black businessman of French and West Indian descent named Samuel “Black Sam” Fraunces, across Cuba, retracing the march of his bearded who had aided the Americans in their bid to gain independence from England. After he became president, Washington hired rebel army from the SiFraunces as his chief steward. erra Maestra mountains 1807—Prince Hall dies. His was one of the most prominent to the capital. Castro’s Black names in colonial America. Hall was born (circa 1748) in ashes will be interred on Sunday in Santa Ifigenia Barbados in the West Indies and migrated to Boston. He became one of the leaders of the city’s Black community. He also became cemetery in Santiago, PRINCE HALL an abolitionist and a Mason. In fact, he is considered the “father of Cuba’s second-largest Black Masons.” He also fought in the American war for independence from England. city. 1906—Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. is founded on the campus of Cornell (Juan Zamorano, Andrea University in Ithaca, N.Y. It thus becomes the first Black Greek letter organization in Rodriguez and Christine America. It was established by seven Black students seeking to build stronger brotherArmario contributed.) hood ties and it began to spread to campuses around the nation. 1915—The Great Migration is said to have begun on this day as an estimated two THE million Southern Blacks begin moving to the North in search of jobs. The impetus was NEW PITTSBURGH World War I (1914) which blocked Europeans from migrating to the United States. COURIER Thus, Northern industries were forced to recruit Southern Blacks to fill jobs to produce products for PUBLISHING COMPANY the war. The migration was the first major movement of Blacks out of the South since the Civil War Publication No.: USPS 381940 and it changed the racial character of the nation. 315 East Carson Street 1969—Black Panther Party leaders Fred Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Hampton and Mark Clark are killed during a police raid in Chicago. The raid was part of a naPhone: 412-481-8302 tional campaign against the Black Panthers. Initial Fax: 412-481-1360 MARK CLARK and FRED HAMPTON reports said the two were killed during a shootout but as the years passed evidence mounted that they The were, in effect, assassinated. It may have even been a Black police officer who fired the New Pittsburgh Courier shot that killed Hampton. December 5 is published weekly 1775—A memorial is dedicated to Salem Poor in Cambridge, Mass. Poor was a slave who had bought his freedom and became a hero fighting in the American Revoperiodicals lutionary War for independence from England. He so distinguished himself in battle, paid at Pittsburgh, Pa. including at Bunker Hill, that he won the praise of 14 officers. PRICE $1.00 1784—The amazing poet Phyllis Wheatley dies in Boston, Mass. Wheatley was kidnapped in Africa at age 7 and sold to a prosperous Boston family, which placed a high value on education. By age 12, she was reading Greek and Latin classics. In the (Payable in advance) 1770s she became a sensation in the city because of her amazing ability to write poet6 Months.....$25 ry. A London company published her first book of poetry. Sadly, she died in poverty before she could find a pub1 Year....$45 lisher for her second book. That second volume has never 2 Years...&85 been found. Although some letters she wrote during this period were recently discovered and sold at auction. 9 Month School Rate $35 1870—Legendary Black cowboy William “Bill” Pickett is born in Travis County, Texas. Standing only 5’7” POSTMASTER: Send and weighing 145 pounds, he is considered one of the address changes to: toughest men every to be called a cowboy. He became famous in the Miller Brothers 101 Ranch Wild West Shows New Pittsburgh Courier where he performed dare devil feats and invented the rodeo sport of “bulldogging.” He is thought to have been 315 East Carson Street of Black and Indian descent. He died at age 70 in Ponca Pittsburgh, PA 15219 WILLIAM “BILL” PICKETT City, Okla.
Thousands line up early to pay homage to Castro in Cuba
NATIONAL
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 6, 2016
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Dakota Access pipeline protesters told to leave by Dec. 5 by James McPherson
speech reasons. The Corps’ letter came after residents in the area BISMARCK, N.D. (AP)— expressed feeling unsafe The U.S. Army Corps and frustrated with how of Engineers has set an the protest has swelled early December deadline to scores of self-described for American Indians “water protectors.” North and others to leave an Dakota officials contend encampment in North that the Corps should not Dakota where they’ve been allow people to be on the entrenched for months land without a permit. protesting the Dakota More than 525 people from Access pipeline. Tribes inthroughout the country cluding the Standing Rock have been arrested since and Cheyenne River Sioux August. In a recent clash are fighting the Dakota Ac- between police and process project because they testers near the path of fear it will harm drinking the pipeline, officers used water and cultural sites. tear gas, rubber bullets Texas-based pipeline and large water hoses in developer Energy Transfer freezing weather. OrgaPartners says the 1,200nizers said at least 17 mile pipeline through the protesters were taken Dakotas, Iowa and Illinois to the hospital, some for will be safe. hypothermia and one for Here’s a guide to the a serious arm injury. One latest developments and officer was injured. key background about the North Dakota officials protest: say the protest has cost EVICTION NOTICE the state about $20 million The Corps said last week in extra law enforcement in a letter to Standing costs. Rock Sioux Tribal Leader DISPUTED LAND Dave Archambault that all The Oceti Sakowin camp federal lands north of the is the overflow from smallCannonball River will be er private and permitted closed to public access Dec. protest sites nearby and 5 for “safety concerns.” The began growing in August. order includes the sprawl- It’s been called the largest ing encampment called gathering of Native AmeriOceti Sakowin, or Seven can tribes in a century. Council Fires camp, that’s Standing Rock tribal a living protest against members and other Native the four-state $3.8 billion Americans believe the pipeline. land with the encampment The Corps cited North is rightly owned by the Dakota’s oncoming winter Sioux through a more than and increasingly contencentury-old treaty with the tious clashes between U.S. government. protesters and police. The Protest organizers said agency says “it has no they don’t intend to leave plans for forcible removal,” or stop their acts of civil but anyone on land north disobedience. of the river after the deadTHE ORIGINS line will be trespassing Energy Transfer Partand may be prosecuted. ners got federal permits The Corps said “more for the pipeline in July, dangerous groups have about two years after it joined this protest and are was announced. The pipeprovoking conflict in spite line is projected to move of the public pleas from a half-million barrels of tribal leaders.” crude oil daily to an existThe agency previously ing pipeline in Patoka, Ill., had said it would not evict for shipment to Midwest protesters due to free and Gulf Coast markets. Associated Press Writer
Judge: Church shooting suspect Dylann Roof can act as his own attorney by Meg Kinnard Associated Press Writer
CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP)—A White man accused of fatally shooting nine Black parishioners at a Charleston church last year was allowed to act as his own attorney in his federal death penalty trial on Nov. 28. Dylann Roof ’s request came against his lawyers’ advice, and U.S. District Judge Richard Gergel said he would reluctantly accept the 22-year-old’s “unwise” decision. Death penalty attorney David Bruck then slid over and let Roof take the lead chair. The lawyers can stand by and help Roof if he asks. The development came the same day jury selection resumed in the case. The selection process was halted Nov. 7 after lawyers for Roof questioned his ability to understand the case against him. Judge Gergel’s ruling last week cleared the way for Monday’s process to begin anew. Roof, 22, is charged with counts including hate crimes and obstruction of religion in connection with the June 17, 2015, attack at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston. He faces a possible death sentence if convicted. Beginning Nov. 28, 516 potential jurors were to report to the courthouse to be individually questioned by the judge. When 70 qualified jurors are picked, attorneys can use strikes to dismiss those they don’t want, until 12 jurors and six alternates are seated. The judge delayed the process of narrowing the jury pool when Roof ’s lawyers suggested that their client either didn’t understand the charges against him or couldn’t properly
help with his defense. The lawyers didn’t say what led them to question Roof ’s fitness for trial. The decision came after Gergel wrapped up a hastily called two-day hearing to determine if Roof is mentally fit to stand trial, hearing testimony from psychologist James Ballenger and four other unnamed witnesses and reviewed sworn statements from three others. The judge said he took the rare step of closing the hearing to the public and media because Roof made statements to a psychologist that might not be legal to use at his trial and could taint potential jurors. On Nov. 25, the judge said he refrained from releasing a transcript of the hearing for the same reason, reversing an earlier pledge to release a redacted transcript. Victims’ relatives complained about the secrecy surrounding the proceedings, but Gergel maintains the steps he has taken are to ensure Roof receives a fair trial and that pre-trial exposure doesn’t provide grounds for an appeal. Roof also has already been found competent in state court, where prosecutors plan a second death penalty trial on nine counts of murder. According to police, Roof sat through nearly an hour of prayer and Bible study at the church with its pastor and 11 others before pulling a gun from his fanny pack and firing dozens of shots. Roof shouted racial insults at the six women and three men he is charged with killing and the three people left alive, authorities said. Roof said he left the three unharmed so they could tell the world the shootings were because he hated Black people.
Lake Oahe, a Missouri River reservoir in southern North Dakota. The Corps of Engineers in July granted Energy Transfer Partners the permits needed for the crossing, but the agency decided in September that further analysis was warranted given the tribe’s concerns. Since then, the Corps has called for even more study and tribal input. The company responded by asking U.S. District Judge James Boasberg to declare that it has the right to lay pipe under Lake Oahe. The judge isn’t likely to issue a decision until January at the earliest. President Barack Obama earlier this month raised the possibility of rerouting the pipeline, and Archambault has said that would be acceptable to the tribe provided the new route PROTEST CONTINUES—A photo taken Nov. 26, shows a sculpture that stands at an encampment isn’t near the reservation. where protesters of the Dakota Access oil pipeline have been gathered for months, near Cannon Ball, But Energy Transfer PartN.D. Protest organizers said that they have a right to stay on the land. (AP Photos/James MacPherson) ners CEO Kelcy Warren told The Associated Press Dakota-South Dakota and millions downstream. that that the pipeline Supporters say the won’t be rerouted and the border, are suing federal The tribe hasn’t fared pipeline will have safecompany has no alternaregulators for approving well in court. A federal guards against leaks, and the pipeline. They have judge in September denied tive than to stick to its is a safer way to move oil plan. challenged the Corps’ its request to block conthan trucks and trains, President-elect Donald decision to grant permits struction of the entire especially after a handful Trump holds stock in at more than 200 water pipeline. An appeal is of fiery—and sometimes Energy Transfer Partners. crossings and argue that pending. deadly—derailments of Pipeline opponents worry the pipeline less than MISSING LINK trains carrying North Dathat Trump’s investments a mile upstream of the The nearly 1,200-mile kota crude. could affect any decision reservation could affect pipeline is largely comThe Standing Rock he makes on the project as drinking water for more plete except for a section Sioux, whose reservathan 8,000 tribal members that would pump oil under president. tion straddles the North
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METRO
NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 6, 2016
News icon and Tuskegee Airmen champion Regis Bobonis has died
Community Calendar Community Conversation NOV. 30—The Black Political Empowerment Project, the Alliance for Police Accountability, the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh and Black Women for Positive Change will sponsor “A Community Conversation with Acting Pittsburgh police Chief Scott Schubert, at 7 p.m., at the Kingsley Association, 6435 Frankstown Ave. Pittsburgh, Pa. 15206. For more information, call 412-212-8775 or email at cav.pgh@gmail.com.
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Community Dinner DEC. 1—The Homewood Children’s Village will host its December Community Dinner, 5:50 to 7:30 p.m. at the WARM Center, 717 N. Homewood Ave., Pittsburgh 15208. Call Hally Ramirez to confirm attendance at 412-727-7605 ext. 16.
New Voices Pittsburgh 12th Anniversary Event DEC. 3—New Voices Pittsburgh will celebrate 12 years of reproductive justice advocacy for Black women and girls with a Black To The Future gala at 8:30-11:30 p.m. at The Studio on Fifth at WQED Studios, 4802 Fifth Ave. Enjoy a catered meal, multiple live entertainment acts, an after party and more. For tickets visit www.newvoicespittsburgh.org.
Holiday Project Through DEC. 20—The Allegheny County Department of Human Services’ Holiday Project is again collecting new, unwrapped gifts for children and youth who receive services through the DHS Office of Children, Youth and Families. While all donation are appreciated, there is a need for: warm winter clothing for ages 0-18 months; board games and puzzles for all ages, sporting goods, dolls and action figures, and creative kits for school ages children. Donations are being accepted at three downtown locations: the Allegheny County Courthouse, the Human Services building and the City County Federal Credit Union. Opportunities to receive and fulfill a child’s wish list are also available. For more information, please contact the Event and Donations Team at 412-350-3428.
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
MAURITA BRYANT SPEAKS TO AUDIENCE
Bryant speaks on race, gender in policing CONTINUED FROM A1
responsibility. “As a public servant, it is my responsibility to ensure people less fortunate especially those in minority communities receive the same quality of service and treatment as those in more affluent communities,” she said. “To help fulfill this awesome responsibility, I sought higher education and to pursue supervisory and leadership positions so I could influence more of the decision making within the department and with the citizens we serve.” These positions, she said, exemplified the concept of the “glass cliff,” meaning they were the positions associated with the highest degree of failure and criticism. “Any Black female in the department who rose to any supervisory post sat on that glass cliff,” she said. Bryant told of working in Brookline early on, following Black female officers who rose to command status; Elliott, Ophelia “Cookie” Coleman, Rashall Brakney and Lavonnie Bickerstaff—all of whom advanced the cause of women on the force and built respect within the communities they served. She also spoke of the need for diversity in command structures—more so the di-
versity of thought. If the table is filled with all White males—it’s not that they necessarily hate women or minorities, it’s that they lack the reference to ask how others might perceive a given action. During the question and answer period, Bryant was asked about reversing the decline in women and Black officers on the force since the court order requiring a hiring quota was ruled unconstitutional in 1991. She said she’s known Black officers who would actually talk badly about the job and discourage others from applying. “They have nice houses, nice cars, nice salaries and have raised their kids and sent them to college,” she said. “Why would you deny that to someone because you might have had a bad experience? Tell them like it is, but don’t discourage them.” Bryant said she is one of six African Americans in the Allegheny County police, and is working on recruitment initiatives to address that. She said that recently departed Pittsburgh Chief Cameron McLay changed recruiting for the better and she expects the bureau’s diversity numbers to increase. She said she and a team of
officers and a photographer have redesigned the county’s recruiting materials because they didn’t embrace diversity—one such item is a postcard aimed directly at recruiting African American military veterans. But she acknowledged it is not a good time for policing right now. “It’s a bad time for policing, based on 24-hour news pushing that race thing, ‘White officer kills a Black man.’ Whether justified or not, if you see that over and over, you think I don’t want to be part of that,” she said. “But I always say, if you don’t like what you see, don’t sit on the sidelines. Join. Join and make the changes you think need to be made.” (J.L. Martello contributed to this story.)
stuff of Pulitzer Prizes,” Bobonis transitioned to public relations, working for Mercy Hospital for 25 years and then at Duquesne Light before retiring. Following his wife’s death, he launched his last and probably his most notable accomplishment. While working for the Daniel B. Matthews Historical Society in Sewickley, he learned not only that five Tuskegee Airman hailed from Sewickley, but that eight came from within three miles, and that there were more Tuskegee Airman from Western Pennsylvania than any other state in the union. “That eight Tuskegee Airmen would come from this postage-stamp community is astounding. This town owes them,” he said at a 2005 event honoring them. “They are products of this school system and community. For them to be lionized across the world without being recognized here—it’s
long overdue.” Ultimately, he successfully spearheaded a campaign to honor those Airman by having a memorial built in the Sewickley Cemetery. Bobonis is survived by his daughters, Nickie McCalla of San Diego, Yvette Flaxman of Point Breeze and Leslie Myers of Sewickley; and his son, Regis Bobonis Jr., also of Sewickley. He also leaves behind his a granddaughter, Melanie Myers; and four grandsons, David Joshua McCalla, Jonathan Daniel McCalla, and Michael and Maurice Myers. In lieu of flowers please donate to: the Tuskegee Memorial Fund P.O. Box 216, Sewickley Pa. 15143. At Bobonis’ wishes there will be no viewing and the funeral mass will be private. The Bobonis family will hold a memorial gathering at a future date. Arrangements are entrusted to the Richard D. Cole Funeral Home, Inc. 328 Beaver St., Sewickley, Pa., 15143.
Promote service, not sentencing CONTINUED FROM A1
lect non-violent defenders into a human service and treatment regimen rather than to jail at the point of arrest. Prosecutors hold the charges in abeyance pending completion of the program. It sounded like, as Alliance for Police Accountability Executive Director Brandi Fisher called it, “a no brainer,” especially since then Pittsburgh Zone 1 Cmdr. Rashall Brakney and Northside Coalition for Fair Housing President and CEO Ronell Guy were set to roll out a pilot version in select neighborhoods. Fast forward to last week, and the University of Pittsburgh Institute of Politics released its Criminal Justice Task Force report on improving incarceration policies and practices in Allegheny County. Among it’s recommendations: “Police, courts, and the district attorney should develop and use proven alternatives to arrest and booking, including establishing programs to divert individuals who otherwise might have been charged with nonviolent offenses into
community-based treatment and support services, using summons in lieu of arrests, and establishing community-based restorative justice programs.” Given that Allegheny County Public Defender Elliott Howsie, Allegheny County Human Services Director Marc Cherna, Buhl Foundation Chair for Civic Leadership Fred Thieman and Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto’s Deputy Chief for Education LaTrenda Leonard Sherrill attended the meetings and served on the task force, seeing the recommendation is not a surprise. The surprise is that things have not progressed past the recommendation stage. The first setback occurred when Brackney was put in charge of the Major Crimes Unit, which put the roll out on hold. She then retired and, despite support from former Chief Cameron McLay, no one in the Pittsburgh police has been tasked to revive the program. “Her initiative went beyond (what was called) PIRC and it ended when she was made commander of Major Crimes,” said Pub-
lic Safety Information Officer Sonya Toler. “I am aware of different diversion programs operating in other cities, but there is currently nothing like that here.” As Howsie noted previously, Allegheny County has several initiatives to divert minor criminals to service programs, but they are all post-arrest. So the possible pre-arrest benefits—no official record to harm employment or housing opportunities, no added strain on families, etc. are lost. And though, as Howsie said, the program is customizable in terms of the kind of crimes and offenders who would qualify, there has to be agreement among all the officers in every county department, every district magistrate and the district attorney about what those criteria are. As of now, they have neither been established nor agreed upon. Allegheny County District Attorney Stephen Zappala’s office was not part of the task force, nor was it represented at any of the LEAD meetings. Emails requesting comment were not received by Courier deadline.
Opioid initiatives mimic federal recommendations CONTINUED FROM A1
health of the individual and the family, quality of life, vehicle crashes, workplace injuries. Most importantly, left untreated it is ultimately fatal.” The scope of the problem is not being exaggerated. In 2015, more than 3,500 people died from overdoses throughout Pennsylvania—that’s almost three times the number killed last year in traffic deaths. “The Surgeon General has said, every dollar invested in treatment saves $4 in healthcare costs and lost productivity and another $7 in criminal justice costs. It is both inhumane and fiscally irrational to not fully address the treatment needs of our population and yet, according to the Surgeon General, we have enough treatment nationally to meet only 10 percent of what’s needed,” said Tennis. However, he added, the report includes evidence that prevention, treatment, recovery policies and programs do work, and that Wolf’s initiatives are already implementing some of its recommendations. These include: •Making Naloxone (Narcan) widely available to reverse overdoses through municipal police departments in 66 of 67 counties. And in 18 counties, all law enforcement departments are carrying Narcan. To date, police officers across Pennsylvania have over 1,800 saves with naloxone; •Drug take-back boxes: Under this DDAP-initiated project, over 500 permanent take-back boxes are located in municipal police stations, resulting in 1,000 tons of unwanted drugs being collected and destroyed; •Warm-handoff strategy: Overdose survivors meet with counselors to encourage
them to enter treatment before they are released from the hospital; •Prescribing Guidelines: Pennsylvania leads the nation with seven sets of specialized pain prescribing guidelines designed to limit the use of opioid and steer health care practitioners more toward less dangerous but equally effective methods of alleviating pain; •New opioid legislation recently signed by the governor that will limit the amounts of opioid that can be prescribed; require all prescribers and dispensers of opioid to include the information in a statewide database, and require medical schools and other facilities to provide education on pain management and opioid prescribing: and on the treatment side; and •Expanding Medicaid resulting in a significant increase in treatment and a tripling of license applications for new treatment programs in the state. Of the legislation he signed Nov. 2 setting opioid prescription limits, Wolf said it would not have been possible without the help and commitment of the legislature. “I am proud to sign a package of bills that represents the work that we have all done together to address the heroin and opioid abuse crisis, and begins to curb the effects of this public health epidemic in Pennsylvania,” he said. “Four weeks ago, I addressed a joint session of the General Assembly to outline a set of legislative goals that would help us tackle this public health crisis and together, the General Assembly and my administration committed to help the victims of substance use disorder, and the communities that have been devastated by this terrible disease.”
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
METRO
NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 6, 2016
A5
Gun violence is a public health crisis in Pittsburgh CONTINUED FROM A1
Meanwhile, guns remain plentiful, so commonly carried that something like a fistfight comes with the threat of bullet wounds. So how can these conflicts be limited to bruises? The answers aren’t easy to find, but many people are searching. The future of whole communities depends on an end to the violence. Persistent violence It’s a rare night when guns are quiet. Since Frederick Douglas was killed in January 2014, more than 8,200 shots have been heard in all corners of Pittsburgh. In that same time, city police have investigated more than 155 gun homicides (all but a handful of the total murders), 460 non-fatal shootings and 600 more shootings that didn’t cause injuries. The violence shapes when residents go outside, where they’ll visit and whether they’ll feel safe in their homes. So a simple stroll down the street brings fear. “You used to go walk to the store about 8 o’clock at night and get a pop or something,” said Connie Moore, 58, who’s spent most of her life around East Liberty. “Now you gotta pack a .38 in your purse.” She peeks at the purse, cracking a smile to explain she’s not presently carrying. But the point is real. Her son, Hosea Davis, was murdered two years ago in Larimer. He was 37. That was nowhere near 8 p.m. It happened in early afternoon. Police responded to a rapid burst of gunfire—16 shots from an assault rifle—with several fired while Davis was already on the ground. Moore proudly calls her son a hero, both for youth outreach work, and for his role in stopping a stabbing at the East Liberty Target in March 2013. Ten months later, he was killed over the theft of drugs, which Moore believes he had no part in. Hosea had told his mom he was headed to her house. When she got a call from a relative, she hung up in disbelief. Moore describes violence that she feels is never ending, all across the city, with mothers crying on the news in what seems like a repeating loop. “The violence is crazy around here,” Moore said. “It’s non-stop.” Many guns, many shootings Pittsburgh Police Chief Cameron Mclay recently briefed reporters on a drop in shootings. He’s right. But the stats were wrong. A PowerPoint presentation at police headquarters showed a total of 199 nonfatal shootings and gun assaults in the
GUNS AND VIOLENCE first eight months of 2016. That would be the lowest total in seven years. Except the total is actually 261. Not abnormally high. But not low. A representative from the bureau said the 2016 stats McLay presented to the public on Sept. 30 mistakenly left out two months of data. PublicSource found discrepancies after reviewing a database of each shooting and finding several cases not reflected by McLay’s statistics. Non-fatal shootings are incidents with a wounded victim. Gun assaults are shootings with a known victim but no injury. Meanwhile, reports for shots fired were at a six-year high, and gun murders through August were the second highest in the seven-year period, barely trailing that brutal 2014. Last year, nearly 50,000 firearms were legally sold or transferred in Allegheny County. That doesn’t capture the illegal market, but it shows a high concentration of weapons that can be lost, stolen or traded, often into the hands of young men. “Citizens have a right to keep and bear firearms,” McLay said. But that “changes the dynamic of every fight, every robbery, every time somebody’s mad at one another.” In August, 18-year-old Kenneth Murphy
was charged with fatally shooting 20-yearold Christopher Rodriguez, who he claimed was going to sell him a gun in Allentown when the one he was holding discharged. In July, 6-year-old Isis Allen was killed only blocks away in Knoxville. She was shot in the head by 19-year-old Kamau Thomas Jr. who told authorities he’d meant to scare someone else at a nearby house. Daija McCall sang at her funeral. They were cousins, killed by gunfire only a few weeks apart. Would Zika make you care? Taili Thompson compares gunfire to mosquitoes. It shows how people care differently about different things. If you’re worried about the Zika virus, and you know mosquitoes in an area carry it, you’d care about how it’s treated, because those mosquitos might bite you. But with violence, people compartmentalize. If it’s not your neighborhood, you can drive by and let someone else sort it out. Think of being downtown on the Fourth of July and hearing gunfire rip on Liberty Avenue. In Homewood this July, shots were reported on 27 days. Is there a difference? Thompson, 43, grew up on the North Side as organized gangs were taking hold in the
1990s. Back then, the Mexican War Streets felt like a war zone, he said, with violence so common that it was desensitizing. “You can’t always react to a gunshot,” he said. “If you do that, your head will be on a swivel.” It’s not hypothetical. He’s seen drugs traded for guns. His own brother was fatally shot nearly 20 years ago, and Thompson still hears gunfire on some nights near his North Side home. As a violence prevention coordinator for the Allegheny County Health Department, he is helping organize a county-wide strategy that treats gun violence as a public health problem. The point is to recognize what’s worked elsewhere and use it here. Dr. Karen Hacker, the department’s director, points to Boston as a model. Back in 1990, Boston had 143 murders by guns and other means. Then a deliberate collaboration across the city, which included police, schools, government and outreach workers, coincided with a drop in killings. “They didn’t want to see all these people die,” Hacker said. “And they all basically put their energy into it.” Last year, Boston had 38 total murders. The city is roughly twice the size of Pittsburgh, which had 56 total murders in 2015, with 50 involving guns. Boston is the original home of Operation Ceasefire, a program based on targeted enforcement and community outreach. It was haltingly tried in Pittsburgh before being remade under McLay, now two years into his tenure. Now the strategy shows promise, McLay said, particularly in the North Side around Fineview, where shootings escalated earlier this year. But what about the future? Stopping violence requires dedicated resources, Thompson said. Not just at the beginning, but for many years, and with support focused on community members that can reach the youth involved in violence. The alternative is a city where gunfire seems normal, and where trauma is disproportionately felt in neighborhoods that seem left behind as the new Pittsburgh rolls toward a future of urban renewal and self-driving cars. Douglas said she remembers when Homewood wasn’t feared. There weren’t those echoing gunshots and so many mothers looking for grief groups. Now, guns pass from hand to hand. They’re carried by young people, at night and in broad daylight, and in strings of violence and retaliation—snap. snap. snap.—they’re fired.
A6
OPINION
NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 6, 2016
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Thanksgiving
Guest Editorial
Troubling choice for attorney general The mainstream media once again is missing the story with early reports of turmoil and infighting by President-elect Donald Trump’s transition team. By focusing on the transition process the media is missing the real story, which is the character and record of the people being considered to serve in the Trump cabinet. The first troubling sign came when Trump announced the appointment of campaign chairman Stephen K. Bannon as chief strategist and senior counselor. Bannon has connections to the so-called alt-right movement, which promotes White nationalism. As chairman of Breitbart News, Bannon provided a platform to White supremacists’ ideology and anti-Semitic views. Now it’s reported that Trump has selected Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions as his pick for attorney general. Sessions is a troubling choice. The Senate Judiciary Committee heard testimony in 1986 in which Sessions was accused of making racist remarks and calling the NAACP and ACLU “un-American.” According to transcripts of the hearings, Sessions was accused of called the NAACP and the ACLU “un-American, Communist-inspired organizations,” joking that he thought the Ku Klux Klan “was OK” until he learned they smoked marijuana, and calling an African American assistant U.S. attorney “boy.” Then-Sen. Edward Kennedy heavily criticized Sessions’ record as a U.S. attorney. Kennedy said he was unqualified to be a federal judge because of his attitude toward Black people. “Mr. Sessions is a throwback to a shameful era which I know both Black and White Americans thought was in our past. It is inconceivable to me that a person of this attitude is qualified to be a U.S. attorney, let alone a U.S. federal judge,” Kennedy said. “He is, I believe, a disgrace to the Justice Department and he should withdraw his nomination and resign his position.” The New York Times reports that in 1981, a Justice Department prosecutor from Washington stopped by to see Jeff Sessions, the United States attorney in Mobile, Ala., at the time. The prosecutor, J. Gerald Hebert, said he had heard a shocking story: A federal judge had called a prominent White lawyer “a disgrace to his race” for representing Black clients. “Well,” Sessions replied, according to Hebert, “maybe he is.” He was less clear about his remarks about civil rights groups. Asked whether he ever said the NAACP hates White people or was “a commie group and a pinko organization,” Sessions said he could not recall specifically saying that. “I am loose with my tongue on occasion, and I may have said something similar to that or could be interpreted to that,” he testified. Civil rights advocates have already raised concerns that a Trump administration would scale back efforts to force police departments to correct unconstitutional practices and other civil rights concerns. As attorney general, Sessions would be responsible for upholding civil rights laws, and the Senate Judiciary Committee should not give their senate colleague a pass but question him thoroughly on past allegations and his current views on civil rights and civil liberties. (Reprinted from the Philadelphia Tribune)
Founded 1910
Rod Doss Editor & Publisher Stephan A. Broadus Assistant to the Publisher Allison Palm
Ulish Carter
Jeff Marion
Office Manager
Managing Editor
Circulation Consultant
John. H. Sengstacke
Editor & Publisher Emeritus (1912-1997)
With the election of President-elect Donald Trump and the overall direction that the country is going, many of us are asking ourselves, “What do we have to be thankful for?” I know I’ve felt the same way at times, but, as our ancestors did during slavery and during the Jim Crow era, we have to reach beyond what we see right now, continue to be thankful for what we have, and fight for better days ahead for ourselves, our children and our grandchildren. It’s really hard to transfer this concept onto our children and grandchildren, who only can see today. I, personally, am thankful for my family. Even though my mother, who was also my best friend and the person I cared for most on earth, is gone. My father is gone, my grandparents on both sides are gone, but I still give thanks that I was fortunate enough to have had them in my life. Also gone are some uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, and many other relatives and friends, but just as we grieve for those who are gone, we must be thankful for those who are still here and enjoy them as much as we can. Health. Even though my body appears to be rapidly falling apart, I still thank God for being in my right mind, even though some people would take exception to that. I’m thankful that I can still get around on my own and am not in constant pain, which many people are. Sometimes we need to just look at all we have compared to others, instead of concentrating on what we don’t have. There are so many people lying in comas, in pain and suffering, that we all need to stop and take a moment to be thankful for what we have in our
Ulish Carter
Just Sayin’ health and how we must implement prayer to help these people heal or pass, whichever is God’s will. What if we were born in the Middle East, in one of the war ravaged countries? Trump and an ultra conservative party controlling the White House, U.S. Senate, U.S. Congress, as well as most of the State Houses, is not the worst we have faced. For those of us who read or have a little bit of age, at one time we were stolen from our country, Africa, and forced to not only be slaves in this country, but were treated worse or at least as bad as any group of humans in history. But somehow we overcame that 200 plus years ago. When slavery was eliminated in 1865, after thousands died during the Civil War, the same White southerners regained power within five to 10 years and implemented the Jim Crow system that was basically slavery with another name. It put Blacks at the very bottom of the work and social spectrum, and at the mercy of the White man. It existed for around 100 years. We must be thankful for the many Blacks and Whites who suffered and gave their lives so that we could survive slavery and move past it; so that we could survive Jim Crow, which
was in the North and South, and move past that as well. But now the people with the same mindset of those who enslaved us and created Jim Crow, are trying to pull us back into that “You have nothing to lose, it couldn’t be any worse” mentality. It has been worse and will get a whole lot worse if we don’t stand together and fight for a better life for all people, not just rich people, White people or White males. We as Black people have suffered a lot, but we still have a lot to be thankful for in our personal lives; and much of that was made possible by the struggles of not just the national leaders, but our parents, grandparents and relatives, and the millions of average everyday people who did not accept the status quo, but were determined to make life better for their kids, and their kids’ kids. Now we must stop and take time to thank our ancestors for all they did for us, and then move forward to make sure our children are better off than we are. With that, I thank my mother, father, grandparents, aunts and uncles, sisters and brothers, teachers, doctors, politicians, friends and associates, and anyone else who has helped me, my family and the world move forward in God’s name. But above them, even though I’ve often thought that He had abandoned us or asked, “Where is He,” I thank God. We have come a long way, but we still have a long way to go. We need to use Trump and the conservatives as motivation to continue the fight for equality. (Ulish Carter is the managing editor of the New Pittsburgh Courier.)
Democrats should pick a leader from their strongest voting bloc: Black women
(NNPA)—The leadership of the Democratic Party, at the highest levels, has consisted of mostly White men and women, and a handful of Latinos. What Democratic leadership in the United States Congress, Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee and the Democratic National Committee doesn’t have—and has never had—is a representative from its most loyal voting bloc over the last three presidential elections: Black women. To say that all quarters of Democratic Party leadership is in need of change is a vast understatement. The numbers don’t lie. The Democratic Party has lost a historic number of seats across the board from federal representatives to statehouse races. Part of that shift is due to a realignment caused by the appearance of the first Black president. But another part of it is a lack of strategy and misallocation of millions of dollars in resources focused on the wrong voters. While Democrats roll out the same old leaders who employ the same old losing consultants and staff, they ignore members of their most consistently loyal voting group: Black women. The 2016 election was, in some ways, a powerful statement on who remains loyal to the Democratic Par-
Lauren Victoria Burke
Commentary ty and who doesn’t. On that note, Latino voters shocked and confused everyone by giving Donald “build a wall” Trump nearly 30 percent of their votes. In 2012, more than 70 percent of Black women voted, while White women voted at 65.6 percent. Black women continue to make up a larger proportion of Democratic votes than any other subgroup. Given all the research, the Democratic Party continues to chase and reward other groups. One would think that ensuring that African Americans get to the polls would become a number one priority at the DNC and DCCC or to anyone campaigning for the White House. Instead, the party continues to chase voters who seem to have less loyalty to the party than Black women, spending millions, while losing elections. More than half of White women (53
percent) voted for Donald Trump. Meanwhile, just 4 percent of African American women and 26 percent of Hispanic women voted for the reality TV star. Why shouldn’t Reps. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), Marcia Fudge (D-Ohio), Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio), Alma Adams and Rep-Elect Val Demings (D-Fla.) serve in leadership? They’re part of the most reliable voting bloc for the Democratic Party and Fudge, Beatty, Adams and Demings are from key swing states. Who better to figure out how to win voters in other sectors than the members of the sector who’ve already shown support? Who better to lead than a former college administrator, a former mayor in a swing state or a former police chief in a battleground state? Instead it appears as if the Democrats are about to embark on yet another wild goose chase for voters who have either turned their back on them, vote against their interests or who are completely unpredictable. That’s where million of dollars will likely be wasted again in the future just as it was by the DNC in 2016. (Lauren Victoria Burke is a political analyst who speaks on politics and African American leadership. She can be contacted at LBurke007@gmail.com and on Twitter at @LVBurke.)
More of the same
In a recent conversation with some of the students in my Race and Law class, I encountered a real sense of discouragement and disappointment and more than a little despair following the election. To begin class, I gave them the opportunity to share how they were feeling and what they were thinking. Some students expressed a range of concerns, like who will be appointed to the United States Supreme Court, and what does the election mean for the protection of civil rights for people of color. Others voiced concerns about what that appointment would mean for women’s rights and the safety of religious minorities. One student talked about how Muslims have been targeted and mosques have been vandalized since President-elect Trump began his campaign, and how hate crimes have followed the election results. I acknowledged that these were important concerns that we should be thinking about and to which we should be paying attention, but I didn’t allow them to dwell on their disappointment. Instead, I told them they were being empowered through their legal education and that democracy is not really about what happens on election night but what happens afterward. As I mentioned in prior columns, democracy is about how you exercise your freedom of speech and right of association. It is about how you use the legal system and the opportunities and resources you have available to bring about positive change. One of the most important features of American democracy is our ability to organize, mobilize and call for change. It is our ability to openly challenge and disagree with decisions made by our government and to create organizations to protect and preserve the rights and wellbeing of racial, re-
Carlton Waterhouse
Commentary
ther King Jr. and Ella Baker? What about Cesar Chavez, Harvey Milk, Wilma Mankiller or Mitch Snyder? I think not, and yet, despite even more overwhelming odds than we might imagine, they achieved monumental successes through their hard work, ceaseless dedication and sacrifices to make America a better place for all of us than it was for them. Today our greatest challenge is not a Trump presidency. It’s hopelessness. It’s despair. It’s a feeling of powerlessness by some and apathy and self-absorption by others. Too many of us take great comfort in complaining but devote no attention to organizing, mobilizing or strategizing to force change. So what should we do? I say, “Do more of the same.” Not more of the same in terms of gridlock in Washington or a state government that is unresponsive to the needs of people of color, sexual minorities, the poor and others here in Indiana. We need more of the same sacrifices, meetings, rallies, marches, boycotts, lawsuits, mass meetings, organizing and protests that led to the civil rights acts of 1964, 1965 and 1968; more of the same engagement that secured the 19th Amendment and created a 40-hour work week, overtime and worker’s compensation; more of the same education that fueled the Black Power and Chicano movements of the 1960s, and the LGBT rights and the Japanese reparations movement of the 1980s. If we are not willing today to match the efforts of our forerunners who had fewer resources, fewer freedoms, fewer opportunities and more threats and open hostility than we do, then we can only expect more of the same inequality and injustice, not only for us but for those who come after us.
ligious and sexual minorities, as well as women, the disabled, workers, the poor and others. The protections that African American women and men have today in education and employment and in voting and in housing and in banking, for example, are far from complete and fully realized, but they exceed what our parents had because of the work they did for us. When we examine how these rights arose and what life was like for those before us who lived without them, we should pause and ask ourselves who brought them about and what sacrifices they made. Sadly, I encounter much more lament about the election than willingness to work to secure the protections for the next generation. Bringing about positive change may be more challenging today than it was a few days ago, but will it really be more difficult than overturning the Jim Crow laws and practices of the South and the North? Will it really be more difficult than gaining women’s suffrage? Will it really be more difficult than bringing an end to more than two centuries of slavery? Are those of us concerned about civil rights today at a greater disadvantage then Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, W.E.B. DuBois, Ida B. Wells, A. Philip Randolph, Mary McLeod Bethune, Thurgood Marshall, (Carlton Waterhouse is a professor of law Constance Baker Motley, Martin Lu- and Dean’s Fellow at Indiana University.)
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Kanye needs help, but he likely won’t get it (NNPA)—Kanye West is melting down. He didn’t perform to expectations at two concert dates, declaring, at one, that he would have voted for Donald Trump for President and generating boos for his statement. In a subsequent concert he performed just a couple of songs, and abruptly ended a performance that should have lasted at least an hour. A couple of days later, he was hospitalized in a “psychiatric hold.” Some say he is simply exhausted, sleep-deprived and stressed. Some say it is more. His mother, Dr. Donda West, died in November 2007. Nine years later, is he especially vulnerable to outbursts and erratic behavior on that anniversary? In any case, even as many of us have admired Kanye West as a boldly audacious entertainer, we are also concerned about his very public meltdown and its implications. African American people don’t pay enough attention to the challenges that mental health issues face. We are more likely than Whites to experience mental health challenges, but far less likely than Whites to seek help. We minimize mental health challenges, laughing and calling those who are challenged crazy and cray-cray (I confess, I do this from time to time). We don’t respond to their very public cry for help. Yes, Kanye West was crying for help. His inappropriate public behavior could have been interpreted as an ask for someone to take him, hold him, comfort him, hear him. Instead, he had a challenging concert schedule, a schedule that would have brought him millions of dollars. Cancelling the schedule may have saved his health, but it has cost him millions of dollars. Imagine the pressure he must have felt; he
Julianne Malveaux
Commentary might have thought, “Can I go on and save the day? Must I step aside and take a hit?” Most African Americans who face mental health challenges face some of the same concerns Kanye West must have. If you share your mental anguish, you are cray-cray, the object of jokes and ridicule. If you hide it, you are eaten alive by an anguish that forces you to say “fine,” or “okay,” when people ask you how you are doing. Just like we tell people to take an annual physical, to feel their breasts for lumps, to get the prostate check, we need to encourage folks who are a bit erratic to check in with their doctors about their mental health. We don’t do that and, indeed, many health plans limit access to mental health professionals. But the mental health status of African Americans too often collides with the law enforcement system when “erratic” behavior on the part of some African Americans is seen as simply criminal. People who are mentally ill and need help are too often incarcerated or killed because some police forces lack the tools to manage a mental health crisis that is likely growing. Consider the case of Anthony Hill, a naked and unarmed Atlanta Air Force veteran who was acting erratically in his apartment complex in early March. Someone called 911, because a naked man was knocking on doors and “acting deranged.” When DeKalb police officer Robert Olsen encountered Hill, he asked him to stop, and when he did not, he was shot twice. Mr. Hill didn’t have a weapon, and anybody who is hanging out naked is clearly mentally impaired. Meanwhile, Officer Olsen had a Taser, but he chose to use his gun, but he chose to use his gun against a naked, weaponless man. Olsen was charged with murder and indicted and, in October, was ordered to stand trial. The trial may begin late this year or early next year. Meanwhile, it is significant to note that Anthony Hill was believed to be bipolar, and suffering from post-traumatic stress syndrome. He served our country in Afghanistan, and tried unsuccessfully to get an appointment, and some help, from the veteran affairs hospital in Atlanta. Might the outcome of his erratic episode have been different if mental health professionals, not a trigger-happy officer, were deployed to intervene? Should mental illness be a death sentence? It was for Anthony Hill, and for many others who don’t get the help they need. Even as the incoming President attempts to reverse some aspects of the Affordable Care Act, conscious health advocates must insist that mental health coverage is as important as physical health coverage. It is disgraceful that a veteran should be shot, because his mental illness got the better of him. It is disgusting that dozens of others who are unarmed and mentally ill are shot, because people untrained to manage mental illness are sent to communities, gun ready, and oblivious to alternatives. And it is disturbing that Kanye West is melting down in plain sight, drowning his pain in angry vitriol. When can we, African Americans, talk about the mental health crisis that exists in our community? It isn’t going to get better, as hate crime escalates and swastikas begin to adorn our city walls. Some of us will want to fight, and others will be driven to despair. We must speak of mental health and healing, and we must speak of it often. One of Kanye West’s colleagues, 9th Wonder said, “Been knowing the brother upwards of 13 years. Mental healing is a serious thing, no matter what. Stay strong Kanye West.” Ashe’.
(Julianne Malveaux is an author and economist. For more info visit www.juliannemalveaux.com.)
FORUM
I was born 85 years ago on November 26, 1931 Yes, we celebrated fights, somemy birthday last Louis ‘Hop’ Kendrick times physical Saturday in Cincinor overwhelmnati, Ohio with our ingly verbal, but granddaughter and I had sharpened her husband and my verbal skills our four wonderful and it became great-grandchilalmost funny dren. On the way some times. to Ohio I reflected They nickon how wonderful named me callthe years have been. There were many ing me Lt. Smart Alex, troublemaker, times that my friends and associates but most addressed me as “Hop”. would say to me, “Hop you won’t make My personal life has truly prepared 21, because you have too much to say, me to understand the overwhelming even if you are right.” importance of a strong family strucIn the early years of my life I was ture, where daddy is able to provide compelled to speak out against injus- for his family. An overwhelming numtices, but it was just natural for me. In ber of mothers have had to perform the year of 1949 at the age of 17 I em- the multi-purpose task of mother, fabarked upon a lifetime journey of com- ther, breadwinner, cook, seamstress, mitment that hopefully would improve laundress, and other duties. A large the quality of life not just for me and number of mothers have done well, mine, but have a positive effect on the but time is long overdue to rebuild and Black communities. It has not always restore the family. been an easy or a pleasant journey, but For too long we have elected persons a positive Christian God fearing Dad- who look like us, but don’t serve us dy and Mama had prepared me well. well. I have continually written about My first time away from home was the unbelievable amounts of governwhen I was drafted into the army ment money being spent across Alwhere I encountered all kinds of prob- legheny County and particularly in lems, large, small, racial, dangerous, Pittsburgh and Blacks—not minoriand life threatening. Yes it became ties—are almost completely shut out. a process of growing up faster than Every now and then a colored person I expected. There were all different will appear and quote some statistics kind of soldiers, Whites, “colored”, His- stating that on this last construction panics, Chinese, Africans, Puerto Ri- project minorities were 12 percent. cans, Mexicans, Cubans, Indians and Who are the 12 percent and what are the tragedy was that all of them saw their company names? (Louis “Hop” Kendrick is a contributor to the themselves as better than those of us who were colored. There were constant New Pittsburgh Courier.)
To Tell The Truth
Understanding Trump supporters? I saw a political can convince the ad. In big bold lowest White J. Pharoah Doss letters it said: man, he’s better Understanding than the best Trump Supportcolored man, ers he won’t know That’s a bold you’re picking his statement. Are pocket. Hell, give the advertisers him someone to suggesting they look down on and understand every he’ll empty his reason behind Trump’s “support?” I pockets for you.” doubt it. The reasons are as numerous In other words, “Trump supporters” as Democratic voters that defected. are a monolithic group so thoroughly One writer, a White liberal, reasoned convinced of their White superiority the election was a repudiation of the they will dismiss their own economic left, specifically black and brown interest to make sure it doesn’t disinidentity politics, and White identity tegrate. politics emerged. Another bold statement, but the ad But that’s not to be confused with is a bold face fabrication. racism. The quote doesn’t match the quesMany of these Whites voted for tion because LBJ was never asked Barack Obama twice so their backing that question. The question is made of Trump wasn’t a backlash against up to superimposed present day polia Black president. They were recoiltics onto the past. All of LBJ’s politiing from constantly being accused cal career, except for the presidency, of racism. (During the Democratic he was a member of the Southern bloc primary candidates were interrupted of segregationist Democrats and the on stage, heckled, and shouted down economic conditions of Republicans by protesters whose only stated aim was not a political concern for repwas to “shut the election down”, one resentatives of the old Confederacy candidate even made a public apology because these states weren’t red at for saying “all lives matter” …But no the time. one will single out and discuss the The LBJ quote is accurate, but it contributions this counter productivwas an off the cuff remark made ity made to the Democratic party’s to his staff about racial epithets on defeat.) protest signs held by Whites while But the advertisers would deny traveling through Tennessee when he these reasons exist because “Trump was vice president. supporters” are easily understood by The entire ad is dishonest. a single mindedness they have gone There’s a factual question and anthrough great lengths to expose. swer that’s more suitable to go beside Now, the ad has a portrait of former LBJ’s image and could make good President Lyndon B. Johnson. advertisement in the future for canPresident Johnson signed The Civil didates with checkered pasts. When Rights Act of 1964, The Voting Rights LBJ was president a reporter asked Act of 1965, launched the “War on him how could he explain his sudden Poverty” and the “Great Society” propassion for civil rights when he has grams, but President Johnson’s image never shown much enthusiasm for wasn’t to promote his record, it was the cause, and LBJ said, “Most of us to underscore social progress under a don’t have a second chance to correct Democratic presidency, and to suggest the mistakes of our youth. I do and I “Trump Supporters” have blocked am.” progress. I hope the advertisers get a second Then the ad states: LBJ was once chance. (J. Pharoah Doss is a contributor to the New asked why poor and middle class Pittsburgh Courier. He blogs at jpharoahRepublicans vote against their own doss@blogspot.com) interest, and Johnson said, “If you
Commentary
NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 6, 2016
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Raynard Jackson
Commentary Why mainstream media loves NBA legend Marv Albert but hates Bill Cosby (NNPA)—Last week, I was watching some NBA games on TNT and one of the game’s announcers was famed broadcaster Marv Albert. He is considered by many to be one of the top announcers in all of sports history. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1997, the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association Hall of Fame in 2014, and the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame in 2015. Some refer to him as “The Voice of Basketball.” He is the same broadcaster that was accused of forcible sodomy and pled guilty to a lesser charge of misdemeanor assault and battery in 1997. Albert was given a 12-month suspended sentence. NBC subsequently fired Albert only to bring him back on the air after less than two years. For a more detailed summary of the Albert issue, click on this link. Now juxtapose Albert’s situation with the case of legendary civil rights activist, TV star, comedian extraordinaire, and incomparable philanthropist, Bill Cosby. Several women have come forward to accuse Cosby of drugging and raping them, but these accusers have provided no evidence to backup their allegations. Yet, Cosby is treated as a convicted felon not only in the court of public opinion, but also by most of his business partners, like NBC. It seems now that women have declared a war on men, especially feminists like media chasing attorney, Gloria Allred. She is behind the women who implicated Albert and accused Cosby. She was also behind similar attempts to destroy former presidential candidate Herman Cain, golfer Tiger Woods and former California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to name a few. Allred seems to have this insatiable obsession with bringing down Black celebrities, with Cosby being the most notable one, but that will be the focus of a future column. Albert’s then employer, NBC, stood by him simply because he pled not guilty when the charges were announced back in 1997. According to NBC, “This past May, when charges against Marv Albert became public, Mr. Albert asserted his innocence and assured NBC senior management that there was no basis whatsoever to the charges. Today, given Marv Albert’s plea of guilty to assault and battery, NBC terminated its relationship with Mr. Albert.” Now, this is the same NBC that cancelled Cosby’s new show that was supposed to air in 2014, right when these women all came forward with baseless charges. Cosby publically stated that there was no substance to these charges; unlike in the Albert case, NBC refused to stand by Cosby and give him the benefit of the doubt. I will leave it to my readers to make their own conclusions, as to why there seems to be a double standard between how Albert was treated vis-à-vis Bill Cosby. Both are males, Albert is 75 years of age and Cosby is 79 years of age, one is White and one is Black, and one of them cost NBC money and the other one generated money for the media company. Albert cost NBC money, because he was a paid employee, but Cosby made NBC money because he was a partner with them. So, they stood by the employee, who cost them money and rejected the partner who made them money. Can someone explain that to me? So, it’s been about two years since NBC cancelled Cosby’s show. The same amount of time that Albert was made to sit on the sidelines after pleading guilty to a crime against a woman, even though others came forward and accused him of similar crimes. So, can we now expect NBC to reengage with Cosby about the timeline for bringing his new show on the air? Mind you that Cosby has never been convicted of anything. I am sure that NBC stands for “Nothing But Consistency.” I am sure that NBC’s seeming double standard has nothing to do with race, especially when one actually admitted to wrongdoing and the other has consistently denied wrongdoing. What’s even more amazing is that the very year Albert was charged with a sex crime (1997), he was inducted into the basketball hall of fame and has subsequently received similar types of awards since. A few months ago, Albert received a new contract from TNT, his current employer. Again, juxtapose that with the treatment of Cosby. Without being convicted of anything, NBC cancelled his new show before it aired on TV, Spellman University returned Cosby’s $ 20 million gift, and several schools rescinded honorary degrees given to him. Am I the only one who is noticing this double standard? One person was convicted in a court of law of a sex crime, but pleaded down to a lesser charge and was rewarded with new contracts, lifetime achievement awards, and given the good housekeeping seal of approval by corporate America. The other person has been convicted of nothing and his whole life’s work and reputation has been stripped from him. In my best Fat Albert voice, “Hey, hey, hey, I got something to say.” How can a man who has done so much good for so many people for so long not be treated better than a convicted woman abuser? This is truly America in Black and White and there is nothing funny about it. (Raynard Jackson is founder and chairman of Black Americans for a Better Future, a federally registered 527 Super PAC established to get more Blacks involved in the Republican Party. BAFBF focuses on the Black entrepreneur. For more information about BAFBF, visit www.bafbf.org. You can follow Raynard on Twitter @Raynard1223.)
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NOVEMBR 30-DECEMBER 6, 2016
NATIONAL
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Trump still facing concerns about White supremacists by Bill Barrow and Jonathan Lemire
“cares about Americans already here.” But White supremacist imagery was a Associated Press Writers common sight at Trump rallies. Pepe the frog, a cartoon character appropriated by ATLANTA (AP)—Donald Trump’s disavowal the White supremacist movement on sothis past week of White supremacists who cial media, appeared on dozens of T-shirts have cheered his election as president hasn’t and signs. The “Make America Great quieted concerns about the movement’s Again” motto was seen by some as a call impact on his White House or whether more back to the nation’s simpler, whiter, past. acts of hate will be carried out in his name. While Trump’s campaign never actively Members of the self-declared “alt-right” courted votes from the movement, it did have exulted over the Nov. 8 results with pubrecognize the long-term fears that some lic cries of “Hail Trump!” and reprises of the Whites feel about immigration. Nazi salute. The Ku Klux Klan plans to mark Taylor insisted, “There’s nothing Ku Trump’s victory with a parade next month in Klux Klan about any of this.” North Carolina. Civil rights advocates have But, in fact, Trump drew Klan backing. recoiled, citing an uptick in harassment and As part of his prolific Twitter use, he has incidents of hate crimes affecting Blacks, retweeted White nationalist accounts and Jews, Muslims, Latinos, gays, lesbians and a famous quote of Benito Mussolini, the other minority groups since the vote. 20th century fascist leader of Italy, saying The president-elect has drawn repeated “It is better to live one day as a lion than criticism for being slow to offer his condem100 years as a sheep.” In February, Trump nation of White supremacists. His strongest declined to repudiate former Klan leaddenunciation of the movement has not come voluntarily, only when asked, and he occaKEY ADVISOR—In this Oct 7, 2016 photo, Steve Bannon, former head of Breitbart News and cam- er David Duke during a CNN interview. sionally trafficked in retweets of racist social paign CEO for then Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, appears at a national security Afterward, Trump blamed the move on a faulty earpiece, only to come back days media posts during his campaign. meeting with advisers at Trump Tower in New York (AP Photo/ Evan Vucci, File) later and offer an explicit condemnation. Further, Trump has named Stephen BanHe has several times fallen back on non, the conservative media provocateur who the excuse of merely retweeting when asked about his shaped the final months of Trump’s campaign, as a controversial social media behavior. In February, he White House chief strategist who will work steps from retweeted a message from the account of a neo-Nathe Oval Office. Bannon’s appointment has become as zi, which came shortly after he retweeted false crime a flashpoint for both sides.Trump’s detractors and his statistics that dramatically overstated the number of “alt-right” supporters broadly agree on one thing: It Whites killed by Blacks. may not even matter what Trump himself believes, or “Bill, am I gonna check every statistic?” he asked how he defines his own ideology, because his campaign Fox News host Bill O’Reilly at the time. “All it was is a rhetoric has emboldened the white identity politics that retweet. It wasn’t from me.” will help define his administration. “Alt-right” is an offWhile Trump is quick to blast his foes on Twitter — in shoot of conservatism mixing racism, White nationalism recent days that includes The New York Times and the and populism. cast of the Broadway musical “Hamilton” — he has yet “Those groups clearly see something and hear someto proactively condemn racist acts his win has inspired. thing that causes them to believe he is one who sympaHis eldest son, Don Jr., has used Twitter to liken Syrian thizes with their voice and their view. ... Donald Trump refugees to a poisoned bowl of Skittles candy, and he has to take responsibility for that,” said Rep. Elijah Cummings of Maryland, a Black Democrat. He was DRAWING CRITICISM—In this Nov. 7, 2016 file photo, Donald has posted images of Pepe. And Trump’s rise to politiamong 169 members of Congress who signed a letter Trump arrives to speak at a campaign rally in Sarasota, Fla. (AP cal celebrity came as he peddled the falsehood that the nation’s first Black president, Barack Obama, was born opposing Bannon’s White House appointment. Photo/ Evan Vucci, File) in Africa, not in the United States. White nationalist leader Richard Spencer said he In an interview last week with The New York Times, public or private property. “What’s surprising now,” he believes Trump, Bannon and the “alt-right” are “all Trump did denounce the White supremacist movement riding in the same lane.” Spencer explained that neither said, “are the references to the campaign” in the inciwhen asked, saying “I condemn them. I disavow, and Trump nor Bannon is a movement “identitarian,” Spen- dences. “’Make American White Again’ ... ‘Go Trump’ I condemn.” But he has yet to convene the traditional with the swastika,” he said. “That is unique.” cer’s preferred term for his racially driven politics. But news conference held by a president-elect in the days Trump was asked about the rash of incidents during Spencer said Trump’s election validates Spencer’s view after winning where he could potentially face more a postelection interview on CBS’ “60 Minutes.” Trump that America must reject multiculturalism and “politipointed questions about it. cal correctness” in favor of its White, Christian Europe- said he was “saddened,” and he looked into the camera The ADL’s Segal called Trump’s answers when quesand said, “Stop it.” But Trump has steadfastly defendan heritage. tioned an important step to “allay any illusions” White ed his hiring of Bannon, who previously led Breitbart Spencer’s group, the National Policy Institute, drew supremacists have about their place in a Trump adminheadlines for its recent gathering where some attendees News and in July described it as a “platform for the mimicked the Nazi salute as they feted Trump. Spencer alt-right” — just a month before he took the job running istration. But Ben Jealous, a former national president of the the Republican nominee’s campaign. told The Associated Press the salutes were “ironic exuNAACP, went a step further, saying Trump should “pull Jared Taylor, editor of the White supremacist magaberance” that “the mainstream media doesn’t get.” a George Wallace.” The segregationist Alabama govzine “American Renaissance,” said Trump bears some But at the Anti-Defamation League, which tracks ernor ran for president on White identity politics but incidents of anti-Semitism, Oren Segal said it is part of responsibility for his pitched rhetoric, which included years later publicly apologized for his views. describing Mexican immigrants as “rapists” at the outa disturbing postelection atmosphere tied to Trump’s Trump “shouldn’t just disavow the worst behavior of set of his campaign and proposing a ban on all Muslim 17-month campaign. others,” Jealous said, “but take accountability for the immigrants. But Taylor said Trump is still unfairly Before, Segal said, it wasn’t surprising for the ADL to maligned as a White supremacist and racist because he worst behavior he’s engaged in himself.” get calls about a swastika, the Nazi insignia, defacing
LIFESTYLES New Pittsburgh Courier
Festival of Praise All Star Tour B2
NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 6, 2016
Mint Condition still sending fans swinging B3
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Debbie Norrell
Lifestyles Report Beware of fake news
So often I have told young people to find a news source that they can trust, read a newspaper or buy a news magazine; you can’t get all of your news from the Internet or social media. Last week, I was listening to a story on a news radio station and they were doing a story about the outcome of the recent presidential election. The news anchor said he thought the outcome was driven by fake news sites and to beware of “sponsored” sites. As soon as I heard the word sponsored I remembered how many of these I have seen. These sites want you to like and share. They look like real news, but you see the word sponsored under the title of the story. During the last campaign there were a lot of these sponsored sites and we still see a lot of them, especially on Facebook. I did some reading on these sponsored sites and here is what I found you should do when you suspect the story is not real. Find the original source of the information. You might find some of the quotes are correct, but the rest may have been taken out of context or fabricated. If the potentially false story you’re reading doesn’t link to an original source, that is a bad sign. Use a search engine to look for the keywords in the story to see if that “news” is being reported by any other outlets. Also, check the URL. If it has a strange ending, think twice about the story. An article claiming President Barack Obama banned the national anthem at U.S. sporting events—false, if you were wondering—came from a website with the suffix “.com.de,” which makes no sense. Finally, don’t trust a photograph. If you see a compelling photo and are just itching to share the story behind it, try this first: •Take a screenshot of the photo, cropping out everything but the image itself. •Open up Google Images in your browser. •Drag the screenshot into the Google Images search field. •Google will tell you its best guess as to who or what is pictured, and where the image originated. According to a Buzzfeed story, young people in Macedonia created more than 100 pro-Trump websites to spread false news. The motive wasn’t political; it was to make money off your clicks. Go to www.Snopes.com to verify if the site is fake or not, they have a list of fake news sites. How much money can you bring in by making stuff up and putting it on the Internet? “I make like $10,000 a month from AdSense,” said Paul Horner, a prolific Facebook-focused, fake-news writer. And, among a growing group of Macedonian teenagers who see fake-news sites as a way to make easy money from American gullibility, the most successful can make about $5,000 a month, BuzzFeed reported. Reportedly, “anybody can make a site and put ads on it,” he said. “They can easily set up a business, create content, and once it is viral, it drives traffic to their site.” (Email the columnist debbienorrell@aol.com)
2016 SALUTE TO LEGAL EXCELLENCE HONOREES—Ralph Watson, Classic Events! founder, left, with honorees Elliot Howsie, Lauren Catanzarite, Jessel Costa, Ernest Sharif, Kim Hoots, Patrick Connelly and Timothy Vales. (Photos by Debbie Norrell)
Classic Events! presents its 2016 Salute to Legal Excellence by Debbie Norrell Lifestyles Editor
On Oct. 22, at the Monroeville Double Tree Hotel, the Honorable Ralph P. Watson, founder
of Classic Events!, was elated to salute a distinguished group of legal professionals at the 2nd Annual Salute to Legal Excellence Dinner. This year’s docket of accom-
HONOREE AND FOUNDER—Dr. Cyril Wecht and Ralph Watson
plished legal professionals included Lauren Catanzarite, Esq.; Patrick Connelly, Esq.; Jessel A. Costa, Esq.; the Honorable Kim M. Hoots; Elliot Howsie, Esq.; Ernest H. Sharif, Esq.; the Honorable David Spurgeon; Timothy Newton Vales, a paralegal; Frank Walker II, Esq.; the Honorable Louis Coles; and the Honorable Dr. Cyril Wecht, JD. The awards concluded with a posthumous salute to Wendell Freeland, Esq. Freeland was a highly respected civil rights advocate for the underserved and a relentless fighter for racial justice. Presenters included family, friends and colleagues of the honorees. They were Brian Catanzarite, Esq.; Lauren Connelly; Senator Jay Costa, Esq.; Janice Glenn; Turahn Jenkins, Esq.; Aisha and EJ Sharif; Caryl Randolph; and Rosemary Crawford, Esq. Guests enjoyed a great
meal and great fellowship. Costa made brief remarks and commended Watson on the creation of Classic Events!, a public relations and marketing group supporting
small businesses, and connecting entrepreneurs with civic leaders, community stakeholders and elected officials to accelerate their business growth and development.
SALUTE TO LEGAL EXCELLENCE HONOREES—Ernest Sharif and Elliot Howsie
SALUTE TO LEGAL EXCELLENCE HONOREE— PRESENTER AND FOUNDER—Caryl Randolph SALUTE TO LEGAL EXCELLENCE HONOREE AND GUEST—The Honorable Kim Hoots and Honorable Eddie Tibbs and Ralph Watson Jessel Costa and family
PRESENTER, HONOREE AND FOUNDER—Brian Catanzarite, Lauren Catanzarite and Ralph Watson
ENJOYING SALUTE TO LEGAL EXCELLENCE—Dr. Cyril Wecht, Rosemary Crawford and Jay Costa
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RELIGION
NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 6, 2016
Praise & Worship ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CATHOLIC CHURCH
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Festival of Praise All-Star Tour
Crawford & Centre Ave. Pgh., PA 15219 412-281-3141 Mass Sunday 9:00 A.M. & 12:00 P.M. Sunday (Gospel Choir Mass) 12:00 P.M. www.stbtmchurch.org
METROPOLITAN BAPTIST CHURCH 22 Sampsonia Street, Northside Pittsburgh, PA 15212 412-231-2554 FAX 412-231-6395 Rev. Lacy F. Richardson, Ph.D., Pastor Church School.................................9:30 A.M. Worship Service.................8:00 & 10:45 A.M. Bible Study/ Prayer Wednesday...................6:30/7:30 P.M. www.metropolitanbaptistchurch.com metropolitanbaptist2224@gmail.com
East Liberty Presbyterian Church Rev. Dr. Randy Bush, Senior Pastor 412-441-3800 116 S. Highland Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206
www.cathedralofhope.com
Journey Worship........8:45 a.m. Sanctuary Worship........11 a.m.
To have your church included in the Praise & Worship section contact Ashley Johnson at 412-481-8302 ext. 128 for ad rates.
KAREN CLARK SHEARD
by Paige K. Mitchell
Clark Sheard, Regina Belle, and Casey J. joined forces to create a dynamic The Festival of Praise Tour praise and worship experi2016, which took place Nov. ence. 7 at Heinz Hall, featured The concert was emceed some of the hottest names by popular comedian in gospel music today. Earthquake, who kept The gospel greats Fred the audience entertained Hammond, Hezekiah Walk- between performances, er, Israel Houghton, Karen enhancing their worship For New Pittsburgh Courier
Join our growing Praise and Worship Church Community For rate information, call 412481-8302, ext. 128.
CASEY J.
FRED HAMMOND (Photos by J. L. Martello) experience. Juanita Surley, a concert attendee said, “I enjoyed this evening. What a terrific gospel explosion. It’s such a moving experience to join with so many people that share that love for God. (I’m) feeling happy to have been a part of this praise festival.” The Festival of Praise tour kicked off this fall and has hit countless cities throughout the country. Sheard said, “Come on Pittsburgh. Let’s have a praise party!” Agreeing with Sheard, concert-goer Vanessa Wiggins said, “A praise party is the best way to describe the evening because that is exactly what it was. People filled the venue from top to bottom praising God. Beautiful experience.” With the tour being a success last year, the multiple Grammy and BET Award-winning artists decided to unite to grace the stage and put on a powerful, live praise experience. Hammond said, “Thanks for all the love, family. We can feel your prayers.” Veronica Toomey, a concert attendee said, “Fred Hammond has always been one of my favorite gospel artists. I still play many of his albums. His voice is anointed and so powerful that it truly speaks to your spirit. All of the artist are so talented, and blessed with the gift of the song.”
ISRAEL HOUGHTON
EARTHQUAKE
MARY ELLIS On November 7, 2016 at age 95, MARY “DOTTIE” ELLIS, of Pittsburgh’s Hill District, Wife of Charlie Ellis, mother of Lester and Charlyne Ellis of California, Grandmother of 6 and Great Grandmother of 5, passed away peacefully in California. Services will be held on Saturday, December 3, 2016, 11am, at the Wesley Center AME Zion Church. 2701 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh PA 15219. Arrangements by Coston Funeral Homes, 427 Lincoln Avenue, East Liberty, PA 12506 (412) 661-5916
REGIS BOBONIS, SR.
We are looking to feature our positive youth in the church communities. You can e-mail, fax or mail their bios and photo to: New Pittsburgh Courier 315 E. Carson St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Fax: 412-481-1360 email: newsroom@newpittsburghcourier.com
Passed peacefully on Friday November 25 of natural causes. Regis was a “trail blazer” and “pioneer” throughout his life. At a young age he was fascinated with the world of communications. Following his graduation from Duquesne University, Regis became a news reporter for the Pittsburgh Courier, then he became the first African American news reporter in Pittsburgh for the Pittsburgh Post Gazette. He then made the transition to broadcast news by becoming the first African American television news reporter in Pittsburgh for WIIC (now WPXI). He then left news reporting and entered into the world of public relations by spending the next 25 years as the Public Relations Director at Mercy Hospital and then ending his professional career by retiring as the Director of Community Relations for The Duquesne Light Company. Regis was a U.S. Navy veteran. He served as a Petty Officer 3rd class during World War II. After being honorably discharged from the Navy, Regis married his Schenley high school sweet heart and the love of his life; the late Hurley Williams. They remained married for the next 53 years. It was after her passing that Regis launched his last and probably his most notable accomplishment. While working for the Daniel B Matthews Historical Society in Sewickley Pa. on the 5 Tuskegee Airman from Sewickley ,Regis discovered there were more Tuskegee Airman from Western Pennsylvania. than any other state in the union. He successfully spearheaded a campaign to honor those Airman by having a memorial built in The Sewickley Cemetery. Regis is survived by his daughters; Nickie McCalla of San Diego, Yvette Flaxman of point Breeze, Leslie Myers of Sewickley and survived by his son Regis Jr. also of Sewickley. He is also survived by his one granddaughter Melanie Myers and his four grandsons, David Joshua McCalla, Jonathan Daniel McCalla & Michael and Maurice Myers. In Lieu flowers please donate to the : Tuskegee Memorial Fund P.O. Box 216, Sewickley Pa. 15143. At Regis’ wishes there will be no viewing and the funeral mass will be private. The Bobonis family will hold a memorial gathering. The time and place is still TBA. Arrangements are entrusted to the Richard D. Cole Funeral Home, Inc. 328 Beaver St., Sewickley, PA 15143
REGINA BELLE
HEZEKIAH WALKER
ENTERTAINER New Pittsburgh Courier
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NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 6, 2016
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
Cover To Cover
‘The Gay Preacher’s Wife’
by Terri Schlichenmeyer For New Pittsburgh Courier
The flowers were a very nice touch. They greeted you from the kitchen counter just as you got home, and were followed by a romantic dinner, candlelight conversation and a quiet evening at home. It was a gift from your spouse, who often has many surprises for you. But, as in the new book, “The Gay Preacher’s Wife” by Lydia Meredith, some surprises aren’t so welcome. Born into a large southern family, Lydia had a “strict Christian upbringing” that kept her somewhat sheltered until she went to college. Her first year at Vanderbilt, she says, was “a real culture shock,” in part because she’d had little experience with dating and no experience with sex. That changed at college, and so did Lydia. Gone was the scared little mouse, replaced by a confident young woman who landed a high-paying job, bought her own home, and dealt with
MINT CONDITION PERFORMING ON STAGE (Photos by J. L. Martello)
Mint Condition: still sending fans swingin’ by Genea L. Webb and Ricco Martello For New Pittsburgh Courier
racism in the workplace. It was a good life but Lydia was lonely, and she prayed to God for someone to love. God, she says, told her that Dennis would be her husband. That was an odd notion, since Lydia had had little contact with her church’s youth pastor. He was a charismatic preacher and she wasn’t sure she liked the way he spoke from the pulpit. She’d barely even acknowledged that he existed but from then on, she says, “I could not take my… mind off this man…” She was not, therefore, surprised when Dennis asked her out. Their romance was not without its problems. Lydia says he was not her type, that she wanted someone to whom she could “marry up.” She didn’t want to be a preacher’s wife like the “miserable” first lady of her childhood church. Still, Lydia married Dennis Meredith, settled down and things got better before they got worse. Shortly after their third son started school, Lydia began “to see some changes in Dennis… but I couldn’t put my finger on it.” He seemed preoccupied, and she blamed their harried life until she found a gay porn video and Dennis admitted to Lydia that he was bisexual, maybe gay. He was sleeping with men—lots of them—and Lydia began practicing “denial, suppression, and avoidance!” Until she couldn’t any longer. There’s a really good story inside “The Gay Preacher’s Wife.” Somewhere. Author Lydia Meredith goes off-topic so often that readers will need to be light on their toes. There’s a lot of drama in this book, which is tiresome. If you can overlook all that, you’ll like “The Gay Preacher’s Wife.” If not, well, you won’t want to touch it. (“The Gay Preacher’s Wife” by Lydia Meredith, 2016, Gallery Books, $16, 244 pages)
While many rhythm and blues groups of the 1980s and 1990s have faded into oblivion, Mint Condition keeps on kicking. “When we first started we concentrated on longevity,” explained guitarist Homer O’Dell. “We watched groups like Aerosmith and we wanted to be the best group we could be. We’ve seen a lot of groups that came out with one album and went away. We didn’t want to be that. We keep putting out music and thankfully the fans stayed with us.” Mint Condition was formed in the early 1980s in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minn. Its current members are lead singer Stokley Williams, O’Dell, keyboardist Larry Wadell, bassist Ricky Kinchen, and saxophone and keyboard player Jeffery Allen. The group was discovered by super producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. Mint Condition’s debut album,
1991’s “Meant to be Mint,” produced the mega hit “Breakin’ My Heart (Pretty Brown Eyes)” which spent 34 weeks on the charts and reached No. 3 on the R&B Top 5 and No. 6 on the Pop Top 10 charts. The album’s next single, “Forever in Your Eyes,” reached No. 7 on the R&B Top 10. These classic ballads quickly solidified Mint Condition as a solid group of top-notch musicians and entertainers. The group still enjoys performing the songs and includes them in their tour repertoire. “‘Pretty Brown Eyes’ is one of our favorite songs that we love to perform because we see how the fans react to it and we like to touch our fans live and direct and it’s just one of those songs that we love,” said Kinchen. Mint Condition’s second album, “From the Mint Factory,” was released in 1993. The single, “U Send Me Swingin’,” peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs Chart for four weeks straight in the spring of 1994. The
song also reached No. 14 on the Rhythmic Top 40 Charts. The next two singles released from “From the Mint Factory,” “Someone to Love” and “So Fine,” were Billboard Top 30 hits reaching the No. 28 and No. 29 spots respectively. The 1996’s “Definition of a Band” peaked the R&B Top 15 thanks to the singles “What Kind of Man Would I be?” which was so popular that it stayed on the Billboard Charts for 41 weeks, and “You Don’t Have to Hurt No More,” which reached No. 10 on the R&B Chart and No. 32 on the Pop Charts. In 1998 the group released a greatest hits compilation, “The Collection: 1991-1998. After Perspective/A&M Records folded, Mint Condition signed with Elektra in 1999 and released its fourth full-length album, “Life’s Aquarium,” which debuted in the top 10 (No. 7 R&B). It’s main single, “If You Love Me,” hit the R&B Top 5 and remained on the R&B Charts for 31 weeks. Following a six-year
ENJOYING AN EVENING OF MUSIC—The crowd at the Monroeville Convention Center.
hiatus, Mint Condition returned to music scene in 2005 with “Livin’ the Luxury Brown,” which was released on the group’s independent label, Caged Bird Records. Despite the time away from the spotlight, the band’s fans ate up the new material making “Livin’ the Luxury Brown” take the No. 1 spot on the independent charts. In 2008 they released “E-Life,” which produced the singles, “Baby Boy Baby Girl” and “Nothing Left to Say.” “Nothing Left to Say” became Mint Condition’s first top 30 hit in almost a decade (No. 27 R&B) and a Top 5 Billboard Urban Adult Contemporary Hit peaking at No. 3. In December 2010, Mint Condition joined legendary entertainer and fellow Minnesotan Prince on the Purple One’s “Welcome 2 America Tour,” which occurred around Mint Condition’s 20-year anniversary as a group. “We love all Minneapolis artists but Prince is one of our favorites,” all Mint Condition members agreed.
To celebrate their years together, Mint Condition released the album “7…” on Shanacie Records in 2011. The record included the singles, “Caught My Eye” and “Not My Daddy,” a collaboration with singer Kelly Price. The vocally tight and musically sound group continues to pack houses, and produce music that tantalizes the senses and soothes the soul. That proved evident when the group packed the Monroeville Convention Center on Oct. 29 for the Grown and Sexy Masquerade Ball. Proceeds benefited the Center for Energy and Computer Education Excellence. Approximately 2000 screaming fans attended the event. “We love our fans and we appreciate the Pittsburgh fans sticking with us,” said O’Dell. Mint Condition is currently touring the country and in the studio making new music. “We are always making new music from our own solo projects to band stuff,” Williams said.
B4
NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 6, 2016
ARTS & CULTURE
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Will Downing talks life, career
‘Live from the Hill Series’ continued by Renee P. Aldrich For New Pittsburgh Courier
The Soulful sounds of Christmas concert featuring Will Downing and Najee will be in Pittsburgh on November 30. The concert is part of the “Live from the Hill Series” being presented by the Hill House Association. In a conversation with the legendary musician, Will Downing, he explained he has been on tour with the incomparable Najee before and was excited for the opportunity this time around. “We’ve toured many times before, it is good to be back with him, we vibe very well together, he’s a talented artist and it is always good to share the stage with someone who has made a mark in the industry. Pittsburgh is actually the first city on this tour,” Downing said. The pair just left Dallas, Texas and Downing discussed how things stay fresh for them from audience to audience. He shared, “Staying fresh is not necessarily a challenge since each audience
is different, we may have done some of the same things the previous night in a different city; but it is all brand new to them He continues, so we treat them like they’ve all come to see us for the first time—plus we push each other to move to the next level. Going into a market like Pittsburgh adds to that excitement—so it seems like we hear something new every night because of the audience response.” Downing will be spotlighting at the Pittsburgh concert his new release, “Black Pearl,” which is a compilation of 10 songs previously recorded by 10 females. Downing explained that a memory of Phyllis Hyman brought this project about. After a conversation with a colleague where he shared he had never done a cover of a Phyllis Hyman song, he decided to do one. An accomplished composer in his own right, he explains, “I covered Phyllis Hyman’s ‘Meet me on the Moon,’ It was so awesome I thought, why not do some songs by other
WILL DOWNING fabulous singers and turn it into an Album?—since they would be all Black women, and I consider our talented women pearls— hence the name Black Pearl.” His first release in 6 years the album covers
some of the greatest female voices in R&B and includes, Chaka Khan, Denise Williams, and Randy Crawford to name a few. In early 2007, Downing’s career was sidelined when he was stricken with a
rare muscular disease, Polymyositis, relegated to a wheel chair and experiencing a weight loss of 100 pounds, this devastating disease kept him down for a year. He was, however, determined to complete the album
he was working on at the time. “After Tonight” for Peak Records. Coming through that challenging time served as a definite wake up call to him. He candidly shared that he like most men was very cavalier about his health and didn’t feel that he had to go running to the doctor every time there seemed to be something wrong. “I was on the fast track with the music career, I was so absorbed in touring and recording that I was not paying attention to the signs. That is until I had no choice; the next thing I knew I was dealing with this disease and facing the prospect of never walking again,” he said. Coming through it he saw that as bad and as sad as it was to be this ill, it served as a blessing, because he came face to face with life’s real priorities and gained an understanding of the importance of balancing work, family and leisure. And he will never take any of it for granted again Fully recovered now he has an entirely different approach to the work, he is still committed to his craft, touring and recording but is fully mindful of the journey he has traveled. He and Najee will be performing in Pittsburgh, on November 30 at the Bynum Theater. The Hill House sees these concerts as viable demonstrations of the power that music has within our community Of his career and the years of acclaim and making music; Downing said “19 albums and 28 years of recording later and I’m still blessed.”
Freeman to receive AARP Movies for Grownups Award WASHINGTON, D.C.— AARP announced that actor, producer and Academy Award winner Morgan Freeman will receive the 2016 Movies for Grownups Career Achievement Award. The Movies for Grownups multimedia franchise was established in 2002 to celebrate and encourage films with unique appeal to mature audiences and to recognize the inspiring artists 50-plus who make them. Freeman will receive Movies for Grownups’ highest honor on Monday, Feb. 6, , at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles. AARP The Magazine will host the 16th annual Movies for Grownups Awards, where many other awards, including best actor, best actress and best director, will be presented. Event proceeds benefit AARP Foundation, which helps struggling people 50-plus in Los Angeles and around the country transform their lives through programs, services and vigorous legal advocacy. “We are proud to announce that Morgan Freeman is our AARP Mov-
MORGAN FREEMAN ies for Grownups Career Achievement winner,” said Bob Love, editor in chief of AARP The Magazine. “Morgan is a consummate
artist and an actor whose unforgettable performances year after year disrupt the conventional wisdom about aging in Hollywood. We
couldn’t be more pleased.” “At a certain point in life, if you’ve had some success, awards start to fall from the sky. But this one really means something,” said Morgan Freeman to AARP The Magazine. “I started my movie career at 50 and some of the best years happened since then. I get a lot of pats on the back—they’re all over the place—but this one’s more than fun, it’s priceless.” With an authoritative voice and calm demeanor, this ever-popular American actor has become one of the most respected figures in modern US cinema. Born in June 1937 in Memphis, Tenn, Freeman had his first dramatic arts exposure on the stage, appearing in an off-Broadway production of “The Nigger Lovers” and also in an all-African American production of the exuberant musical “Hello, Dolly!” (1969). His breakout role in film was playing Fast Black in “Street Smart” (1987), a performance that landed him his first of five Academy Award nominations. Today, Freeman’s career spans more than 50 years and includes roles in memorable films including “Driving Miss Daisy,” “Glory,” “Unforgiven,” “The Shawshank Redemption,” “Amistad” and more. He received the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 2004 for his performance in “Million Dollar Baby.” Additionally, Freeman produced many films in conjunction with his company, Revelations Entertainment, including 2010’s “Invictus,” in which Freeman played Nelson Mandela; the film received Academy Award, Golden Globe and SAG nominations. In April 2017, he will co-star with Michael Caine and Alan Arkin in the comedy “Going In Style.” Freeman joins a prestigious list of previous AARP Movies for Grownups Career Achievement honorees, including Michael Douglas, Kevin Costner, Susan Sarandon, Sharon Stone, Robert Redford and Robert DeNiro.
GIFT GUIDE
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 6, 2016
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The 2nd Annual “Craft for Christmas” List (Urban News Service)— Like last year’s Craft for Christmas” list, our list is no simple collection of online stores. This one is focused on makers—African American entrepreneurs who have embraced the idea of creating change and community wealth by creating things with their own hands. We scoured the web to find those businesses whose products reflect some combination of originality, innovation, ingenuity and a commitment from the owners to investing in their own communities. When you shop at these places this holiday season, it’s more than a purchase, it’s support for a bright future filled with talent, great ideas and progress.
FOOD & WINE
Bazaar Spices bazaarspices.com
The D.C.-based spice store offers a stunning global blend of seasonings and botanicals for recipes and healing, from rare African bird peppers to Moroccan preserved lemons.
OnyxBox is for those women of color who joined subscriptions like BirchBox, only to find that 90 percent of the products required them to get their hair wet. These products are all designed with you and your needs in mind.
Sisters Darlene and Lizzie Okpo infuse their Nigerian heritage subtly into a women’s wear collection that manages to be global and completely American at once.
Free Negro University etsy.com/shop/ freenegrouniversity
A basic line of fashionable tees and hats that carry a simple but powerful message—one that’s maybe more necessary now than ever.
HOME, KITCHEN & BATH
Osrick Ingredients Cricket osingredientscricket. com
Anyone paying attention knows that the world’s most fashionable sport, on the field, is—cricket. OK, you may not know the rules, but you have to admit the players are killing it. Osrick is the world’s first cricket menswear brand, and like their inspiration, Ralph Lauren, did for Polo, they’ve captured the spirit and lifestyle of the sport brilliantly.
AphroChic aphrochic.com
For the tastefully fancy home, AphroChic delivers high-style pillows, poufs and accessories.
Middleton Knives middletonmade knives.com
Want LesEssentiels wantlesessentiels.com
A sharp knife is the single most important kitchen essential. Might as well have an artisan-crafted knife to cut those fancy hand-crafted pickles and farmto-table veggies.
From Canadian twin brothers Byron and Dexter Destiny Moscato Peart, LesEssentiels is an extraordinary collection of destinymoscato.com Winemaker Mark Thierry high-end men’s and women’s leather goods—lugand celebrity business partner Nicole Murphy are gage, bags, shoes and fine accessories. For those thick taking on the hugely popwith style, but not thin of wallet.
Spring Break Watches springbreakwatches. com
DESTINY MOSCATO WINE ular trend for sparkling wines on the sweet side. In two styles, Diamond (white) and Ruby (pink).
Mouton Noir Wines moutonnoirwines.com
In short order, Mouton Noir (Black Sheep) has grown from 3000 cases a year to now more than 300,000, which makes it the most successful Blackowned winery in America. It’s all the vision of Andre Hueston Mack, the former sommelier at world renowned restaurant French Laundry, who not only blends the wines, but designs the labels (and the t-shirts).
A unique limited edition of sport and dress watches made from unique craft materials including wood, mineral glass and stainless steel mesh. Thorough modern and fun for a weekend of every day wear.
Ikere Jones Menswear ikerejones.com
A deft mix of vintage meets international clothing for men with a bold style that references bout couture and the continent.
Sisters Darle and Lizzy Okpo of William Okpo (Urban News Service Photo)
BOHTEN Eyeglasses bothen.com
Another group of designers using wood and unconventional materials in unexpected places, with hot and stylish frames made from walnut, rosewood, ebony and more.
SPORTS
Rad Black Kids theradblackkids.com
For he daredevil in the family, Rad Black Kids offers a fun collection of handmade longboards, trick boards, tees, gear and all things skate.
Studio Maxe etsy.com/shop/StudioMaxe
SUBSCRIPTION BOXES OnyxBox shop.weareonyx.com
Melaku Aromatherapy etsy.com/ shop/Melaku Aromatherapy
One of the largest and most successful Black-owned stores on the popular craft site, Etsy, Melaku sells a comprehensive range of natural and vegan body, bath and health products for your body and spirit.
Wall art for the serious (and woman) cave. Ticket-inspired posters for your favorite sport and the team of your choice.
UncleBrutha’s Hot Sauce Emporium unclebrotha.com
The many awards given to Unclebrutha’s ALLSAUCE shows a dedication to craft that has brought chef/owner Brennan Proctor national attention. Good enough to carry in your purse.
APPAREL Asiya Sport asiyasport.com
Launched and fully funded as a Kickstarter project just months ago, Asiya Sport takes the model set by Muslim-American Olympian fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad and goes a step beyond, with a line
ASIYA SPORT of performance hijab and modest wear for athletes whose religion or beliefs call for an alternative to the usual skin-baring workout gear.
William Okpo williamokpo.com
“Hustle Pouf” from AphroChic (Urban News Service Photo)
Cubs (and all team) ticket posters from Studio Maxe. (Urban News Service Photo)
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NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 6, 2016
GIFT GUIDE
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
New Pittsburgh Courier
BUSINESS
C3
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NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 6, 2016
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
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James Clingman
Blackonomics
It’s time to give our money marching orders (NNPA)—In April 2005, I wrote an article titled, “Billion Dollar March,” at the behest of “The Ice Supreme Man” Ashiki Taylor in Atlanta. The article was in reference to our penchant for marching when we are upset, and then going home to sit down and wait for another crisis. This reaction to our grievances is so predictable and has no effect on the situations against which we protest and demonstrate. The obvious question is, “Why do we continue to do it then?” Because I don’t do foot marching, I won’t spend my time trying to answer that question; you can ask those who are calling for marches to explain it to you. What I will do, however, is suggest another kind of march: The Billion Dollar March. Just as in 2005, we are confronted with the same problems, the same conditions, the same powerlessness, and the same Black leadership that opts for foot marching as a way to get politicians to change, and as a remedy against unfairness, such as being killed by a rogue cop. Those of us who were members of the MATAH Network in 2000 will remember our monthly “Standing Order.” We received a book and a tape to help elevate our consciousness; two of the tapes were “Internal Reparations,” by Dr. Conrad Worrill and David Whitaker’s “The Wake-Up Call.” I listened to both of them this week and, while they reconfirmed my decades of spreading the “Economic Gospel,” those two messages from two astute, conscious, and conscientious Black men really illuminated—once again— the importance of marching our dollars to Black businesses and wielding economic power as a means to change our situation. Using dollars to reward and punish is a proven way of getting someone’s attention and, thereby, causing them to change their ways. Look at the many examples that have taken place just over the past ten years or so. Nations and their products were boycotted; sports organizations, entertainers, and conferences refused to hold events in cities whose policies went against their beliefs; and most recently we saw NBA Commissioner, Adam Silver, take the AllStar Basketball game out of Charlotte, N.C. Now in reac-
tion to the election, three NBA team owners are boycotting all Trump hotels. Billionaires like Mark Cuban give their dollars marching orders. We must do no less. Our Billion Dollar March must be organized, measurable, maintained, sustained, and used to empower us. It must not be done solely to hurt someone else; it must be implemented to benefit Black businesses owned by conscious and conscientious brothers and sisters, because we know that, “everything Black ain’t Black.” The businesses we support must use some of their windfall profits to build a war chest to sustain the coordination of our Billion Dollar March. In addition to supporting and growing our local Black businesses, we must adopt a consistent, continuous, habitual movement centered on buying from ourselves. Every Black household should have Black-made products coming in at least once per month. Goods and services that we use on a regular basis, offered by Black producers, must find their way into our homes continuously. The One million will keep track of our participation via pledges and feedback from our members and the businesses we support. Nationally syndicated columnist William “Bill” Reed recently wrote, “Blacks spend less money in Black-owned businesses than other racial and ethnic groups spend in businesses owned by members of their groups. How many Blacks go out of their way to patronize Black-owned businesses? African American buying power is over $1 trillion; and yet only two cents of every dollar an African American spends goes to Black-owned businesses.” A Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management study found that a million jobs could be created if Black consumers spent $1 of every $10 at Black-owned stores and other enterprises.” What’s wrong with us, y’all? Worrill, Whitaker, Reed, and others have given us the formula for economic success and, thereby, political success, for many years. We don’t need another foot march, we need—and must have, a Billion Dollar March. Here is our charge: Start SEE GIVE C2
SHARING CONCERNS—Debra Valentine Gray, Regional Director of Advancement at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a host committee member of 2020 Women on Boards shares ideas with Tyra Good, PhD., founder of the Black Educators Network as to how to get more African Americans involved in the process of board diversity. (Photos by Diane I. Daniels)
National conversation addresses board diversity by Diane I. Daniels For New Pittsburgh Courier
The word diversity used as a noun is defined as the inclusion of individuals representing more than one national origin, color, religion, socioeconomic stratum, sexual orientation and so forth. Dealing with the diversity issue of getting more women on corporate boards of directors the group 2020 Women on Boards held their annual National Conversation on Board Diversity event as normal the Thursday before Thanksgiving, which this year was Nov. 17. Pittsburgh was one of 18 participating cities aiming to diversify women in leadership roles. The organization exists to raise awareness and to advocate change in companies who have zero female representation on their boards. According to a local spokesperson, Carrie Coghill, president and CEO of Coghill Investment Strategies, 2020 Women on Boards began as a national organization with the primary mission of increasing female board representation to 20 percent by the year 2020. It tracks Fortune 1000 companies and keeps a Gender Diversity Index on their website; www.2020wob.com. The Pittsburgh event was hosted and organized by Coghill Investment Strategies, a local investment management firm chaired by Christy Uffelman of Align Leadership and event chair Kristen Hemmings of Coghill Investment Strategies, it was sponsored by numerous area corporations. “Pittsburgh has embraced this event with open arms,” said Uffelman. “The city wants opportunities to do more.” She pointed out that in the two years of hosting the event the attendance has doubled from 130 in 2015 to 300 this year making it the second largest in the country, second to Los Angeles out of 18 participating cities. With a focus on diversity of women in a broad sense not so much as ethnicity, Boston based 2020 Women on Boards reports that women account for over 80 percent of all consumer purchases and make up roughly 50 percent of the workforce in the United States but currently hold only 16.6 percent
AWARD WINNER—A Proud Moment for E Properties and Development Owner Emeka Onwugbenu
of the corporate board seats within Fortune 1000 companies. Justice Cynthia A. Baldwin, Member, Board of Directors of Koppers pointed out that only 2.8 percent of board directors of Fortune 500 companies are women of color. She is the first woman on Kopper’s Board of Directors. “While we are addressing diversity on boards from the perspective of women we have left out of the conversation diversity in terms of ethnicity and that’s important,” said Debra Valentine Gray, Regional Director of Advancement at Indiana University of Pennsylvania during the event expressing a concern she and several other African Americans had about the National Conversation on Board Diversity event. “It is an important piece that we must address. Not only do we want women on boards but we also want people of color. Women of color, men of color because that brings the topic into more of an inclusive conversation.” Gray was one of four African Americans on the Pittsburgh host committee. Darcel Madkins, Business Analyst at PNC Bank, also a Pittsburgh host committee member views the efforts of WHAT AN EXAMPLE—The Hon. Cynthia A. Baldwin, Member, Board of Directors of Koppers is the first woman on Koppers Board. SEE NATIONAL C2
Developer first to win individual Bridgeway Capital Impact Award
PITTSBURGH, PA (PittsburghNewsWire.com) — Over 400 people witnessed Emeka Onwugbenu, CEO of E Properties and Development receive the Impact Award during the Bridgeway Capital 26th Anniversary Celebration. The award was given for his exemplary community impact in 2016. Honored that the Bridgeway board of directors and staff viewed his work worthy of recognition, Onwugbenu said he is humbled, “I believe that it is a testament to the great work that our team at E Properties and Development is doing.” Mark Peterson, Bridgeway’s President and CEO identified the award criteria as a community development partner making a difference. An organization or person making critical contributions in the Western Pennsylvania region where everyone participates in economics. Onwugbenu, Peterson said is Bridgeway’s first individual Impact awardee. Onwugbenu and E Properties and
Development transformed an abandoned school in the Larimer community into the new home for the Urban Academy Charter School. The reconstruction and development provides for growth, and offers a high-quality education to 250 children. Along with E Properties and Bridgeway, other partners in the project included the Reinvestment fund, Architect Radelet McCarthy Polletta, Pittsburgh City Councilman Ricky Burges and the Larimar Consensus Group. According to the Urban Academy of Greater Pittsburgh Charter School CEO Dr. Gail D. Edwards, the mission of the school is to provide superior education that will develop into the students’ academic excellence, leadership skills and social values enabling them to ultimately become positive contributors to the community in which they live, and society. Sitting abandoned and boarded up for numerous years, the approximate budget for the 38,000 square-foot building was $3 Million.
C2
NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 6, 2016
National conversation addresses board diversity CONTINUED FROM C1
the organization as a start. In agreement with Gray, her solution is for the 2017 committee to work harder to get more people of color involved and aware. “As an African American woman, I would like to see more people of color work with 2020 Women on Boards to ensure that going forward each event, audience member and or participant has adequate representation.” Admitting that there seemed to be a low number of African Americans in the room, she pointed out that “the true Pittsburgh” is less than 28 percent of African Americans. The morning of activities consisted of a panel discussion on the topic of a roadmap on how to become board ready, an awards presentation recognizing Leroy M. Ball, president and CEO of Koppers for his commitment to nurturing board diversity and roundtable leadership development discussions titled Experience: delivering solid business results; Exposure: building your skills and knowledge; Excellence; building and sustaining strategic networks. Earlier this year 2020 Women on Boards published a study, Boardroom Diversity: When Women Lead which examines the board composition of 960 companies on the 2015 Fortune 1000 list which indicates that there is a strong correlation between the gender of a company’s key leaders and the diversity of its board of directors. Several key findings of the study indicated; boards with female CEOs, Board Chairs, or Nominating Committee Chairs are significantly more gender diverse than boards with male leadership; of the Fortune 1000 companies with a
female CEO or Board Chair, 88 percent and 86 percent of companies respectively have already met or surpassed 2020 Women on Boards’ goal of having 20 percent or more women on the board comparing to 42 percent of all Fortune 1000 companies; The board seats held by women are not monopolized by an elite subset of individuals. In Fortune 1000 companies, 1839 female board seats are held by 1386 women. Most sit on a single Fortune 1000 company board, although many may also serve on smaller company or non-profit boards. Also noted is that 12 women serve on four or more Fortune 1000 boards coming from a variety of professional backgrounds including law, politics, academia, and non-CEO executive positions as well as the C-suite. Classified as the “Amazing Dozen” it shows that there are a multitude of paths to the boardroom and that America’s top companies value diversity of experience. Three of the Amazing Dozen are African American women. Alexis M. Herman served as the 23rd U.S. Secretary of Labor under President Bill Clinton. Donna A. James has been a Consultant, Business Advisor, President and Managing Director of Lardon and Associates LLC since March 2006 and Joyce M. Roche served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Girls, Inc. from 2000 until her retirement in 2010. Already planning for 2017 events, Madkins encourages interested parties to get involved by contacting Hemmings by telephone: 412575-5900 or email: khemmings@coghillinvestmentstr ategies.com. “Going forward, I ask all to show up and pull up a chair and have a seat at the table,” she stressed.
Give money marching orders CONTINUED FROM C1
right now to redirect $1 billion back to ourselves in 2017, via the example now being shown by The One Million Conscious and Conscientious Black Contributors and Voters. We are buying and promoting a ubiquitous product, one that is consumed worldwide in amounts on par with oil and wheat: Sweet Unity Farms Coffee from Tanzania. To purchase, go
to our website at www.iamoneofthemillion.co m/products.html. We are also getting our tax returns prepared at Compro Tax Offices. Buy Black products and professional services. If one million of us spend $1,000 per year at Black businesses we will bring our Billion Dollar March to fruition. So, take a load off your feet. Let your dollars do the marching.
BUSINESS
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Senators demand study on federal advertising in Black-owned media by Stacy M. Brown For New Pittsburgh Courier
Norton’s letter came a little more than one month after she held a press conference on Capitol Hill with leaders from the NNPA and NAHP. At that press conference, Norton called on the GAO to perform a new study and update a 2007 report that revealed government agencies spent $4.3 billion in advertising but just a pittance of that amount was spent with minority media publications. The Congresswoman also secured the support of many others in the House of Representatives. Congressional Black Caucus Chairman G.K. Butterfield, California Rep. Karen Bass, New York Rep. Yvette Clarke, Ohio Rep. Marcia Fudge, Michigan Rep. John Conyers, Georgia Rep. John Lewis, and California Rep. Maxine Waters—all Democrats—were among those who signed Norton’s letter and called for action. “We believe that this request is particularly timely, because GAO will be conduct-
(NNPA)—Five U.S. Senators have joined the fight for accountability in the federal government’s advertising practices—or lack thereof—when it comes to minorityowned news outlets. A letter penned by the senators demands that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) investigate the advertising habits of federal agencies. Sens. Robert Menendez, D-N.J., Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., Kirsten Gillibrand, DN.Y., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii and Cory Booker, D-N.J. each signed the letter. In the new letter sent this month to the Comptroller General Gene Dodaro, a request is made that the GAO issue a report on federal advertising contracts and subcontracts with minority-owned publications, public relations firms, advertising agencies, and media companies. “News outlets and media companies owned or published by people of color are critical to ensuring that diverse viewpoints are presented to the American people,” the letter stated. The letter continued: “As one of the largest advertisers in the United States, the federal government should play an active role in ensuring that minority-owned media outlets have fair opportunities to compete for and be awarded federal advertising contracts.” Menendez said that contracting opportunities through the federal marketplace has proven to be a valuable way for firms to stay competitive in a rapidly URGING ACCOUNTABILITY—New Jersey Senator Cory Booker is evolving marketplace. among five prominent senators to sign a letter urging accountability in Dr. Benjamin Chavis, the the federal government’s advertising practices. This photo was taken president and CEO of the during a panel discussion on criminal justice reform with Senators NNPA, applauded the new Cory Booker, D-N.J. and Tim Scott, R-S.C. (Freddie Allen/AMG/NNPA) letter by the senators. He noted the joint effort between NNPA and ing an audit of spending by federal agenthe National Association of Hispanic Publi- cies on public relations and advertising,” cations in pushing for a new federal adver- Norton said. “We ask [the GAO] to take tising study. this opportunity to consider how much is “The NNPA and NAHP thank Senators spent with newspapers and other media Booker, Schumer, Menendez, Hirono and companies that are owned by people of Gillibrand for helping to push for this strate- color and whose audiences are largely Afrigically important GAO inquiry,” Chavis said. can-American or Hispanic.” “2017 should be the year of greater economic In 2007, GAO considered spending on adequity and parity with respect to more in- vertising contracts with minority-owned clusiveness in the billions of dollars spent businesses by five agencies—the Departannually by government departments and ment of Defense, Department of the Treaagencies on advertising.” sury, the Department of Health and Earlier this year, Democratic Congress- Human Services, the Department of the woman Eleanor Holmes Norton and many Interior, and the National Aeronautics and of her colleagues in the House formally re- Space Administration—and found that quested an investigation into how federal just five percent of the $4.3 billion availgovernment agencies spend advertising able for advertising campaigns went to midollars. Jonathan Sanchez, the associate nority-owned businesses. publisher and chief operating officer of the Norton and others have asked for an upEast Los Angeles-based Eastern Group date from the GAO as well as more acPublications, Inc., which boast a loyal read- countability. ership of about 500,000 subscribers, the The federal government is the largest adnews is more than welcome. vertiser in the nation and it plays an imEarlier this year, after Norton’s letter, portant role in supporting minority-foSanchez said he was appreciative that ac- cused publications that reach Africantion was finally being taken. American, Latino, Asian-American and Pa“I have been working on this issue for cific Islander communities, said Rep. Baryears and I am glad this is finally becom- bara Lee, D-Calif. ing a reality,” said Sanchez. “Historically, there has been a lack of adeSanchez has supported efforts by NNPA quate federal government funding granted and NAHP that calls lawmakers to spon- to disadvantaged and minority-owned adsor a new report that will help determine vertising agencies,” said Congressional why minority media companies have been Black Caucus Chairman G.K. Butterfield, Dexcluded from the lucrative advertising N.C.. “This issue shows the systemic probdeals government agencies have made lems that exists across numerous arenas in with other news organizations. both the public and private sector.”
Dialing up deals: Black Friday online sales hit new high by Alex Veiga AP Business Writer
Holiday shoppers eager to snag big discounts turned to the internet in record fashion this week, one tracking company said, driving online sales on Black Friday to a new high. Consumers spent $3.34 billion shopping online on Friday, a 21.6 percent increase from the same day last year, according to Adobe, which tracks online retail transactions. More than ever before, shoppers used their mobile devices to dial up deals online, the firm said, as mobile purchases surged 33 percent on Black Friday to $1.2 billion. Retailers also racked up online sales on Thanksgiving Day and the day before, the latest evidence that consumers are increasingly turning to online shopping as an alternative to wading into malls packed with holiday season bargain-hunters. College student Emilia Ollearis works at the Water Tower Place mall in Chicago but is doing virtually all of her shopping online. She said she prefers to go to a store to get a close look at merchandise, but that’s it. “I’ll go buy it online,” said Ollearis, 24. “I’m not gonna wait in line for it.” The trend also suggests that consumers are less willing to hold out for potential online deals traditionally found on Cyber Monday, which is the Monday after Thanksgiving and has traditionally been the busiest day of the year for online shopping. “We had projected Cyber Monday to be a $3.36 billion day, and to win the crown of largest shopping day ever,” said Tamara Gaffney, principal analyst and director at Adobe Digital Insights. “But Cyber Monday may not have as much gas left in the tank.” The widespread use of mobile phones and access to high-speed Internet are likely
contributing to more shoppers turning to the Internet ahead of Cyber Monday, Gaffney said. Retailers are also increasingly making available online the type of door-buster deals typically reserved for store locations on Black Friday. Lisa Collins of Gilford, New Hampshire, will buy gifts online if she finds a better price and free shipping. “Never pay full price,” she said. She felt like prices were better than in past years. “I think there’s better deals. I think they’re paying attention to online sales,” she said. Tablets had some of the steepest price markdowns online this Black Friday, with an average discount of 25.4 percent, Adobe said. Televisions were down an average of 23.2 percent, while markdowns for toys online were around 15 percent. All told, shoppers spent $5.27 billion in online purchases on Thursday and Friday, up 17.7 percent from the two-day period last year, Adobe said. Even as online spending hit new highs this Black Friday, many shoppers across the U.S. still ventured to malls looking for deals. The Mall of America in Minnesota, which opened 24 years ago, reported that Friday was the highest traffic day it can recall. Courtney Weitz of Meredith, New Hampshire, picked up a few small gifts at Target in Concord early Saturday. She wasn’t able to hit the stores on Black Friday or Thanksgiving because she had to work. “I checked online and didn’t really find anything I wanted,” said Weitz, 24. “I only came for a Swiffer and toothpaste, and I’m leaving with a bit more than that.” All told, the National Retail Federation projects that shoppers will spend $655.8 billion in November and December. That would be a gain of 3.6 percent from a year ago.
BUSINESS BUSINESS CALENDAR CALENDAR
Business Luncheon NOV. 30—The African American Chamber of Commerce of Western Pennsylvania will host its Annual Business Luncheon, 12:00 p.m. in the Omni William Penn Hotel Grand Ballroom 17th Floor, 530 William Penn Place, Downtown. Speaker: Loretta J. Mester, President and CEO Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland. Please R.S.V.P. by Wednesday, November 26, 2016 at 412-392-0610
Training Workshop DEC. 2—The Duquesne University Small Business Center presents Introduction to Online Quickbooks, 9 a.m., at Rockwell Hall, Rm 108, 600 Forbes Ave. QuickBooks offers an online version for business owners and this workshop will provide a product overview including navigating, recording transactions, and reporting. This event will be conducted by a certified public accountant from Dennis Piper & Associates, P.C. The cost is $49. For more information, call 312-396-6233.
Financial Statements Workshop DEC. 6—The Duquesne University Small Business Center presents Get Behind the Numbers & Increase Your Profits, 9 a.m. to Noon at Rockwell Hall, Rm 108, 600 Forbes Ave. This hands-on workshop takes a step-by step approach to explaining two important financial statements: profit and loss statement and balance sheet. A representative from Wilke & Associates will offer clear examples for using these statements to make informed decisions, identify potential problems within your business and set realistic financial goals. Cost is $49. For more information, call 412-396-6233.
Women Business Leaders Breakfast Series DEC. 9—Chatham University’s Center for Women’s Entrepreneurship’s will host its breakfast meeting 8-9:30 a.m. in Braun Hall, Woodland Rd. in Shadyside. Utilizing the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank as a case study, Lisa Scales will discuss the adjustments in organizational culture, talent, and operations that are required for transformational growth in an organization. For more information, call 412-365-1253.
Business Showcase DEC. 13—The Oakland Business Improvement District will host a celebration of the regions food and drink purveyors from 5 to 8 p.m., at Soldiers and Sailors Museum, 4141 Fifth Ave. Attending businesses include Full Pint Brewery, Red Oak Café, Sushi Fuku, Wigle Whiskey and more. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at onlyinoakland.org.
Business Energy Efficiency Grants THROUGH APRIL 15— The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has to $1,000,000 of grant funding available in the 13th year of the Commonwealth’s Small Business Advantage Grant Program for small businesses that adopt or acquire equipment or processes that promote pollution prevention and/or energy efficiency projects. Applicants must be a for-profit corporation, limited liability corporation, partnership, sole proprietorship or other legal entity with 100 or fewer full-time employees. Businesses can apply for 50 percent matching funds of up to $9,500 to adopt or acquire energy-efficient or pollution-prevention equipment or procedures. Funding is eligible for those costs incurred between July 25, 2016 and June 30, 2017. For more information, contact the Small Business Ombudsman’s Office at 717-772-5160.
SPORTS New Pittsburgh Courier
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NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 6, 2016
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
by Aubrey Bruce For New Pittsburgh Courier
Before, during and after the Thanksgiving Day 2016 Pittsburgh Steelers 28-7 pasting of the 2nd string quarterback sporting Indianapolis Colts at weather friendly Lucas Oil Stadium in “Indy,” nearly everyone including but not limited to: joggers, bloggers and London foggers and many other “Johnny-come-lately” prognosticators and imitators were demanding without just cause, while not even displaying the slightest understanding of why they were demanding the termination, and ex-communication of the Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin henceforth and forevermore from the “church of the Black and Gold” because of the perceived difficulties of him being able to keep his “flock of players”
Inside Conditions…2nd Bananas in line and for disputed coaching decisions such as attempting two point conversions during a time when possibly attempting to kick one point conversions with a “unique” placekicker, were sometimes almost as risky as trying to kick a greased pigskin into the teeth of a 200 miles per hour generating wind machine. But fortunately regarding the job security of one Michael Pettaway Tomlin, cooler heads prevailed because the Rooney Family and the Pittsburgh Steelers decided not to throw the headmaster out with the bath water because those sitting in the “coliseum of life” all displayed the thumbs down sign when it came to continuing his employment as the Pittsburgh Steelers big man on campus. Many cerebral Steelers aficionados’ figured out sooner rather than later
but topsy-turvy Bills. Therefore an 11-5 record should win another AFC North title for them but alas, the New York Giants or the Baltimore Ravens can never be counted out, especially the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens always have an extra turn up the heat button when it comes to facing their bitter and longtime rivals, the Steelers. Beating the Browns and the Colts are by no means a signal to celebrate for the SteelAUBREY BRUCE ers or their faithful and Pittsburgh is by no means that there was nothing ailThey are scheduled to ing the Steelers that facface the New York Giants, out of the woods. As a ing the Cleveland Browns Baltimore Ravens and the matter of fact, the Steelers armed with a third string Cleveland Browns in Pitts- have just exited the forest signal caller and the Indi- burgh at Heinz Field. They but are now entering the swamp like final leg of anapolis Colts team minus have to go on the road to their season. If they ae their star QB as well as face the Buffalo Bills and not careful, the quicksand several other key players the Cincinnati Bengals. if failure is awaiting their couldn’t remedy. Their only looming defeat very next step. No one As far as the remainder might come when they of the Steelers 2016 season travel to the tundra domi- fears your weapons if the is concerned, they have nated landscape of Buffalo, outcome of your efforts are hit and miss. Competitors five remaining games. NY to face the talented
respect sharpshooters not those that can only rarely and randomly hit their targets because as I said in a recent column there is no sense in having the greatest firepower without being able to focus on and hit the intended destination. The Steelers have to hit on all cylinders; offense, defense and special teams. If they experience even a minor misfire, they most likely will be out on a deer hunting or fly fishing expedition in January of 2017, while the crème de la crème of the NFL will still be in the hunt for a Lombardi Trophy. Don’t expect any more help from the 3rd string QB’s of the NFL. There does not appear to be any forthcoming assistance on the horizon.
(Aubrey Bruce can be reached at: abruce@newpittsburghcourier.com or 412-583-6741. Follow him on Twitter@ultrascribe.)
Offensive line key to Steelers’ success by Dan Scifo, For New Pittsburgh Courier
PITTSBURGH (AP) — Steelers running back Le’Veon Bell doesn’t feel his offensive line receives the credit it deserves. The headlines are usually reserved for Bell, quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and wide receiver Antonio Brown, the three stars who spearhead the Steelers’ dangerous offense. Bell believes the line is behind the Steelers’ recent offensive resurgence and helped snap a four-game losing streak. Pittsburgh has consecutive road victories against Cleveland and Indianapolis. “They’re playing superb,” Bell said. “Those guys give me a lot of room and space to make things happen and they allow me to get to the second level pretty much untouched. They deserve all the credit.” The Steelers (6-5) host the Giants on Sunday. The Steelers and Baltimore Ravens are tied atop the AFC North and have a head-to-head Christmas Day matchup in Pittsburgh. The Steelers feel their offensive line will be critical to their success. “We need to just stay consistent and keep doing our job,” center Maurkice Pouncey said. One of the top priorities is keeping Roethlisberger upright. The line has allowed one sack in the last three games and 14 this season, tied for the second fewest in the league among quarterbacks with 10 starts. “Ben is the key to the franchise moving forward,” guard Ramon Foster said. “Keeping him on the field is goal No. 1. That has to be our job.” Roethlisberger, who missed a game in October after meniscus surgery in his left knee, has completed 73 percent of his passes during his last three
STEELERS OFFENSIVE LINE games for 796 yards with six touchdowns and zero interceptions. He is tied for fifth in the league with 23 touchdowns and has thrown just seven interceptions. “Any team, when you have a quarterback like that, you have to keep him healthy, so he can throw it down the field,” Pouncey said. “We’ve been doing a good job and hopefully we can build off of that.” Brown has reaped the
benefits, most recently Thursday against Indianapolis when he set a single-game high with three touchdown receptions. Brown leads the NFL with 82 catches and 10 touchdowns, while ranking third in the league with 998 yards. “It’s not surprising with all the talent they both have,” guard David DeCastro said. “It’s a special connection.” Bell brings it all togeth-
er, as his unique skill set makes him a threat in the backfield and as a receiver. He has 477 yards from scrimmage in the previous three games, including 201 against the Browns and 130-plus each against Dallas and Indianapolis. “We’ve been doing what we need to do to win games,” Bell said. “Whether it’s running or catching the ball out of the backfield, we just want to make sure we win the game.”
Bell, among NFL leaders in yards from scrimmage, has rushing touchdowns in each of his last three games. He also rushed for more than 100 yards in back-to-back games for the second time in his career. Bell, despite missing three games because of a suspension, leads all running backs with 57 catches and is just outside the top 10 in the AFC in overall receptions. “It’s hard to defend that
type of player,” Pouncey said. “When he’s heating up and scoring touchdowns, it’s good for everybody.” Particularly good for the Steelers, who have settled into a groove offensively, thanks in large part to their offensive line. “This is what we expect and we have to keep it going,” DeCastro said. “If we play like this, we’re going to have a lot of chances to win games.”
of two things and to this there is no doubt. Mel Blount and J. T. Thomas can wake up out of a coma and play corner better than the Steelers D-Backs now! “No Dis” Intended. :03 In case you didn’t know, Achieving Greatness Inc. will feed some deserving Senior Citizens at the 42nd Annual Rev. Duane Darkins Memorial Senior Citizens Pinner and Fashion Show Starring Rob Stars Flo Wilson and Tim Stevens, Performance By Actress Naomi Allen and the Fabulous Sensation Models Saturday Dec. 3. “They gave to us now we give to them!” Now—Ya— Know!!!
:02 While I’m in your calendar… Mark this date. Saturday Jan. 7 we bring in the New Year… 1st out the gate I might add… The 2nd Annual W.P.A. Humanitarian Award. Honoring the people who help change the world. Stay Tuned. :01 Speaking of staying tuned. The release of champions Quarterly Pgh’s newest Community Based Magazine in your hands as of Nov 30. :00 Getting ready for year No. 43. Looking for Account Executives, Staff Writers, Event Planners and Volunteers. Call 412-628-4856 to join the team!!! GAME OVER
Overtime by Bill Neal
Sir. James to return next season! For New Pittsburgh Courier :08 Back to Line Backer Central. Lawrence Tim:10 The University of mons, Ryan Shazier and Pittsburgh Football team Company are starting is in Fact the Real Deal to put the pieces together and if 70 plus points and turning up the heat against Syracuse doesn’t on the oppositional minus prove it then you don’t of course the sleepwalker know college football. A they did against the Cowrecord breaking day by boys. Peterman and O’Connor :07 Is it me?… Am I secures a major bowl bid. Old?… Is it upstairs, do Hail to Pitt! :09 “D—Bow” That being we have to have “Dancing With The Stars” after James Harrison the 14 every touchdown? C’mon year inhuman Veteran Line Backer for your Pitts- man, act like you’ve been there before! burgh Steelers is a living :06 Last week I gave you testament as to what can the top 10 NFL running happen when you really take care of your body. He backs of all time and is in fact a model of athlet- I had no objections to the list headed by the ic excellence!!! Look for
BILL NEAL
Great Jim Brown. Here, Boys and Girls, are your greatest quarterbacks of all time. As always, if you beg to differ hit me up at 412-628-4856. No. 1—Terry (4 Super Bowl Rings) Bradshaw. No. 2—Joe Montana. No. 3—Tom Brady. No. 4—Peyton Manning. No. 5—Steve Young. No. 6—Brett Favre. No. 7—John Elway. No. 8—Dan Marino. No. 9—Johnny Unitas. No. 10—Jim Kelly. :05 This in early the Pirates will not and I repeat… will not trade Andrew McCutchen. And that Little Johnny you can take to the bank! :04 Back to your Black and Gold. I am convinced
CLASSIFIED New Pittsburgh Courier
C4
NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 6, 2016
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Help Wanted
Help Wanted
PHYSICIAN – PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION University of Pittsburgh Physicians seeks a Medicine and Rehabilitation Physician in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, to treat disability resulting from disease or injury, from sore shoulders to spinal cord injuries; focus on the development of a comprehensive program for putting the pieces of a person’s life back together after injury or disease – without surgery; design a treatment plan that can be carried out by the patients themselves or with the help of the rehabilitation physician’s medical team. Must have Medical degree; must have completed a residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation must be Board eligible or Board certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation; and must have a valid unrestricted PA medical license. Apply by following these steps; visit http://careers. upmc.com and enter 160001LJ in the Search eyword ob ID field and click Go. EOE.
PSYCHIATRIST University of Pittsburgh Physicians located at . S. Steel ower, 5 th Floor, rant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 1521 , seeks a Psychiatrist to practice at UPMC McKeesport, 15 Fifth Avenue, Mc eesport, PA 15132, Mon ough Community Services, 5 Walnut Street, Mc eesport, PA 15132, and Western Psychiatric Institute & Clinic of PMC, 3811 O’Hara Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 to be responsible for the clinical management of patients within the Adult Mood and Anxiety Service Line. Requires travel between worksites within a 15 mile radius. Applicant must have completed a Residency in Psychiatry, eligible to obtain a Pennsylvania Medical License, and a current D A Certificate. Apply by following these steps; visit http://careers. upmc.com and enter 160001LS in the Search eyword ob ID field and click Go. EOE.
SCHOOLS
ONCOLOGIST University of Pittsburgh Physicians seeks an Oncologist to work in Pittsburgh, (Allegheny County), PA. Diagnose and treat inpatients and outpatients with cancer or another oncologic/hematologic diagnosis. Medical degree or foreign equivalent; completion of a residency in Internal Medicine; completion of a fellowship in Hematology/Medical Oncology Board certified in Internal Medicine Board Certified or Board eligible for certification in Hematology or Medical Oncology; and must have a valid PA medical license or eligibility for licensure. Apply by following these steps; visit http:// careers.upmc.com and enter 160001LU in the “Search Keyword/ ob ID field and click o. O .
Training
WESTERN PA OPERATING ENGINEERS HEAVY CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT OPERATORS/ MECHANIC TECHNICIANS Earn while you learn through a registered 4 yr Apprenticeship Program. High School or D. Must be 18 by June 1. Selection and drug test required. Applications available Dec 5-Dec 1 at www.wpaoperators. org and Mon-Fri, AM-3 PM at Operating Engineers, 111 Zeta Drive, Pittsburgh, PA or WPA Operating ngineers, 45 Christopher Road, New Alexandria, PA. Also Saturday, Dec 1 , AM-3 PM ew Alexandria LEGAL ADVERTISING Legal Notices
PHYSICIAN – GERIATRICS UPMC Community Medicine, Inc. seeks a Physician - Geriatrics to work in Pittsburgh (Allegheny County), PA. Specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease and disability in older adults. Must have a Medical degree (M.D.) or foreign equivalent; completion of a residency in Family Medicine completion of one year of fellowship training in Geriatric Medicine. Must be Board certified or eligible for certification in Family Medicine must have a valid PA medical license or be eligible for licensure. Apply by following these steps; visit http:// careers.upmc.com and enter 160001LT in the “Search Keyword/ ob ID field and click o. O .
HOSPITALIST University of Pittsburgh Physicians seeks multiple Hospitalists in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, to provide and direct inpatient medical care for hospital patients. Must have Medical degree; must be Board certified or Board eligible for certification in Internal Medicine or Family Medicine valid PA medical license. Apply by following these steps; visit http://careers. upmc.com and enter 160001LK in the Search eyword ob ID field and click Go. EOE.
ADMIN & COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR
Landforce, a nonprofit speciali ing in workforce development and environmental stewardship, is hiring a part-time Admin & Communications Coordinator. See www.landforce pgh.org/about-landforce/workfor-landforce for details.
POLICE OFFICER ALLEGHENY COUNTY Allegheny County is accepting applications for Police Officer. For application requirements and job description please go to http:// alleghenycounty.us/Careers/ Police/Police-Officer.aspx or visit us at our Human Resources office at 1 2 County Office Building, 542 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh, PA.
HOSPITALIST PHYSICIANS UPMC Emergency Medicine, Inc. seeks multiple Hospitalists to provide and direct inpatient medical care for hospital patients. Employer is headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA but positions require long-term assignments at hospitals throughout PA and OH. May be required to work overnight shifts as a Nocturnist (a Hospitalist who works overnight shifts). Requirements: Medical degree; completion of a residency in Internal Medicine or Family Medicine must hold or be eligible for a medical license in PA and OH. Apply by following these steps; visit http://careers. upmc.com and enter 160001LL in the Search eyword ob ID field and click Go. EOE.
SONNY BOY
Estate of ALEXANDER WEILENMANN, a/k/a ALEX WEILENMANN, deceased of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania No. 02-16-06027. David Y. Miller, Executor, c/o Tener, Van Kirk, Wolf & Moore, P.C., One Oxford Centre, Suite 2100, 301 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 or to Nancy L. Rackoff, Esquire, Tener, Van Kirk, Wolf & Moore, P.C., One Oxford Centre, Suite 2100, 301 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Estate of DOROTHY REHTORIK, deceased of Bellevue, Pennsylvania No. 02-16-04524. Lorraine Rehtorik, Co-Administrator, 18 Greenwood Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15205 or to: Sandra Carioto, Co-Administrator, 922 McCoy Road, McKees Rocks, PA 15136 or to: Todd T. Jordon, Esquire, Tener, Van Kirk, Wolf & Moore, P.C., One Oxford Centre, Suite 2100, 301 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Estate of DAVID H. DUNLAP, of Indiana Township, PA, No.: 02-16-06280, Debra R. McFadden, Administratrix, 516 Kellingwood Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15238. R.M. Entwisle, III, Atty., 125 1st Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
LEGAL ADVERTISING
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
LEGAL ADVERTISING
LEGAL ADVERTISING
Meetings
Bids/Proposals
Bids/Proposals
City of Pittsburgh Public Meeting
PORT AUTHORITY OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY
GAP to the Point – Bicycle Facilities The City of Pittsburgh, in cooperation with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PENNDO District 11- and the Federal Highway Administration, is hosting a public meeting to discuss the proposed GAP to the Point project located in City of Pittsburgh, Allegheny County. The purpose of this meeting is to present the proposed project scope and schedule. Further, the City of Pittsburgh and its consultants will be available to answer questions about the project. This project will add bicycle facilities to Downtown Pittsburgh extending from Smithfield Street and Fort Pitt Blvd to Point State Park. Aspects including the addition of bicycle lanes, narrowing of travel lanes, removal of travel lanes and removal of parking along the project route will be discussed. The Market Square Historic District, the Smithfield Street Bridge, Forks of the Ohio, Firstside Historic District, Pittsburgh Renaissance Historic District, and he Bell Telephone Company of Pennsylvania Head uarters Building are all in the project area. When: December 14, 2016 Time: 6:00 pm-7:00 pm Location: Thayer Hall JVH Auditorium Point Park University, 201 Wood Street Pittsburgh, PA 15222 For more information contact: Kristin Saunders Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator E-mail: Kristin.saunders @ pittsburghpa.gov Telephone: 412-429-4928 *The plans viewing location is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). In addition, if you or an individual with whom you are familiar does not speak English as their primary language and who has a limited ability to read, write, speak, or understand English desires to view these plans or if you require special assistance to view the plans or need additional information please contact Richard Meritzer, the ADA Coordinator at the City of Pittsburgh, at richard.meritzer@pittsburghpa.gov or 412-255-2102.
Electronic Proposals will be received online at the Port Authority of Allegheny County’s Ebusiness website (http://ebusiness.port authority.org). Proposals/bid submittals will be due 11:00 AM on December 16, 2016 and will be read at 11:15 AM., the same day, at Port Authority, 345 Sixth Avenue, hird Floor, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222-252 , for the following: Electronic Proposal - Ebusiness website (http://ebusiness.portauthority.org)
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR FLEET VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR - FORD IFB#300-51-16
Bids/Proposals
ADVERTISEMENT Sealed bid proposals are hereby solicited for the Community College of Allegheny County, 8 Allegheny Avenue, Pittsburgh PA 15233 412.23 .3 2 on the following items: Bid Proposal 986 – Components for Film and Video Program Proposals will be received at the Purchasing Department until 2:00 P.M. Prevailing Time on Thursday, December 8, 2016. The CCAC Purchasing Department is now publishing all bids via the CCAC website at https://www.ccac. edu Bid-RFP Opportunities.aspx It will be each vendor’s responsibility to monitor the bid activity within the given website Bid and RFP Opportunities”) and ensure compliance with all applicable bid documents inclusive of any issued addenda. Failure to incorporate any applicable addenda in the final submittal may result in the rejection of your bid. he Board of rustees reserves the right to reject any and all bids. The Community College of Allegheny County is an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and encourages bids from Minority/Disadvantaged owned businesses..
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & FACILITATION
he Pittsburgh Land Bank PLB is accepting competitive proposals from experienced firms to conduct community engagement and meeting facilitation for a discreet series of public meetings over the next six months. Interested firms must secure a copy of the RFP from the PLB website at www.pittsburghpa.gov/landbanking/workingwith-us. Proposals are due Monday, December 2, 2016 12:00 Noon prevailing time.
LEGAL ADVERTISING Bids/Proposals
ADVERTISEMENT Sealed bid proposals are hereby solicited for the Community College of Allegheny County, 8 Allegheny Avenue, Pittsburgh PA 15233 412.23 .3 2 on the following items: Bid Proposal 985–Replace Lighting at Gym/PE Building–Allegheny Campus A mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held at a.m. on Wednesday, ovember 3 , 2 1 . he assembly point will be the campus security office, side of P Building, Ridge Ave. at Legacy Way, Pittsburgh, PA 15212. Proposals will be received at the Purchasing Department until 2:00 P.M. Prevailing Time on Wednesday, December 7, 2016. The CCAC Purchasing Department is now publishing all bids via the CCAC website at https://www. ccac.edu Bid-RFP Opportunities. aspx. It will be each vendor’s responsibility to monitor the bid activity within the given website Bid and RFP Opportunities and ensure compliance with all applicable bid documents inclusive of any issued addenda. Failure to incorporate any applicable addenda in the final submittal may result in the rejection of your bid. he Board of rustees reserves the right to reject any and all bids. The Community College of Allegheny County is an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and encourages bids from Minority/Disadvantaged owned businesses.
To place adisplay ad in the New Pittsburgh Courier call 412-481-8302 ext. 128 or 129
B151289AR Turbochargers– Cummins Engines B160428AR Coach Replacement Parts–Engine: Detroit Diesel Cylinder Heads B160864R Switch Machines B161086A On-Call Plumbing Services B161091A Shock Absorbers— LRV B161092A Air Brake Compressors B161094A Hybrid Transmission Parts B161095 Dell Servers for Horizon Upgrade B161096 VMWare Horizon Upgrade B161098A Maintenance, Inspection, Testing, and Certification of Fire Protection Systems No bidder may withdraw a submitted Proposal for a period of 5 days after the scheduled time for opening of the sealed bids. A Pre-Bid Conference will be held on each of the above items at 10:00am on November 30, 2016 at Port Authority, 345 Sixth Avenue, hird Floor, Pittsburgh, PA. Attendance at this meeting is not mandatory, but is strongly encouraged. Questions regarding any of the above bids will not be entertained by the Port Authority within 48 hours of the scheduled bid opening. These contracts may be subject to a financial assistance contract between Port Authority of Allegheny County and the United States Department of Transportation. The Contractor will be required to comply with all applicable Equal Employment Opportunity laws and regulations. Contractor is responsible for expenses related to acquiring a performance bond and insurance where applicable. All items are to be FOB delivered unless otherwise specified. Costs for delivery, bond, and insurance shall be included in bidder’s proposal pricing. Port Authority of Allegheny County hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively insure that in regard to any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, disadvantaged business enterprise will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, or national origin in consideration for an award. he Board of Port Authority reserves the right to reject any or all bids.
COURIER CLASSIFIEDS… THE ONLY WAY TO GO!
The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request proposals from ualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): FLEET VEHICHLE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR FORD IFB#300-51-16 The documents will be available no later than ovember 28, 2 1 and signed, sealed bids will be accepted until 11:00 A.M., December 16, 2016 at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 2 , Pittsburgh, PA 1521 , at which time they will be opened and read aloud. Parties or individuals interested in responding may download a copy of the Invitation for Bid from the Business Opportunities page of www. HACP.org. Questions or inquires should be directed to: Kim Detrick Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 2nd Floor, Suite 200 100 Ross Street Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-456-5116 Opt 1 A pre bid meeting will be held: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Dept. 100 Ross Street 2nd. Fl. Ste. 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15213 Thursday, December 8 2016 11:00 A.M. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation. HACP’s has revised their website. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and log-in, in order to view and download IFB RFPs documentation. Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to itle II, the Fair Housing Act, Section 5 4 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1 3, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.
Soul Readers MRS. JAN With God all things are possible. Help in love, business, luck, health, jobs and court, and numbers. 863-844-3870 TO PLACE AN AD IN SOUL READERS
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SONNY BOY
NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 6, 2016 C5
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
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NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 6, 2016
PEOPLE
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
FIGHTING FOR RACIAL JUSTICE—The YWCA Greater Pittsburgh’s Center for Race and Gender Equity honored several community leaders who have worked diligently to promote racial equity in their various fields at its 25th Annual Racial Justice Awards Dinner on Nov. 16. Pictured above are the event’s honorees. Standing, from left: Rev. John M. Wallace Jr., Faith; Jesabel I. Rivera-Guerra, Community Engagement; Vanessa German, The Arts; and Sean Cameron Means, Education. Sitting, from left: Dr. Rhonda Moore Johnson, Health; Arletta Scott Williams, Business & Professional Services; and Valerie McDonald Roberts, Public Service & Safety.
YWCA 2016 Racial Justice Awards
MAGDELINE E. JENSEN, CEO of the YWCA Greater Pittsburgh, speaking about the event.
MARSHA JONES, president, board of directors of the YWCA Greater Pittsburgh, giving remarks.
THE PACKED OMNI WILLIAM PENN HOTEL BALLROOM (Photos by J. L. Martello)